France reshuffle backline for South Africa test in Paris
France have announced a revised starting XV for their Nations Championship clash with South Africa in Paris on 13 November. Captain Antoine Dupont will take the fly‑half role wearing number 10, while Maxime Lucu moves to scrum‑half. Gregory Alldritt returns at number eight, replacing the injured Paul Boudehent. Romain Ntamack, Matthieu Jalibert, Thomas Ramos and Antoine Hastoy are ruled out, and Axel Desperes sits on the bench as a potential debutant.
Key facts
- The match is scheduled for 8.10 pm GMT.
- France lost 32‑17 to South Africa in their November meeting last year.
- Paul Boudehent is out injured, prompting Alldritt’s recall.
- Dupont’s shift to fly‑half marks his first appearance in that position in a Test.
- The Nations Championship match is part of the 2026 tournament.
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Why it matters
The changes could reshape France’s attacking options against a strong South African side.
What changed
First published from The Independent, Yahoo Sports and CNA