France's Bold Rugby Lineup for Italy Includes 7-1 Bench Strategy
Coach Fabien Galthié explains key player exclusions and unveils a historic substitution tactic for Six Nations clash.
- Damian Penaud and Matthieu Jalibert are excluded from the French squad, with Galthié emphasizing competition and long-term team development.
- Théo Attissogbe replaces Penaud on the wing, while Thomas Ramos is repositioned as the starting fly-half.
- France will employ an unprecedented 7-1 bench configuration, featuring seven forwards and only one back, aiming to dominate physical contests and ground play.
- The Italian team, led by Gonzalo Quesada, has made two changes, with Simone Gesi and Gianmarco Lucchesi joining the starting lineup.
- Both teams prepare for a competitive match in Rome, with Italy aiming to challenge France's recovery after their narrow loss to England.