Bordeaux fullback Romain Buros is set to make his France debut after being named in the squad for Saturday’s autumn series test against New Zealand. The 21-year-old takes the place of Leo Barre in the backline as coach Fabien Galthie makes four changes from the team that comfortably defeated Japan at the Stade de France. Gabin Villiere replaces Damian Penaud on the right wing, with Penaud ill and his replacement, Theo Attissogbe, sidelined with a sprained left ankle. Veteran center Gael Fickou returns to the midfield alongside Yoram Moefana, while Emilien Gailleton moves to the reserves.
The All Blacks are visiting Paris for the first time in nearly a year, having lost to France in their last encounter at Eden Park. The French triumphed with eight tries, but were not without flaws, and the All Blacks will undoubtedly be seeking revenge.
It was a perfect start for France when they were in the All Blacks’ 22m after just three minutes, thanks to Antoine Dupont’s exquisite footwork and superb vision as he spotted gaps in the Brave Blossoms’ defense. The youngster was then involved in the next try as he threw an intelligent pass to Maître d’Espiral, who crossed unopposed for a 12-0 lead.
A clever low kick from Dupont then troubled Japan’s defense and allowed Bielle-Biarrey to score his second try of the game. The home side continued to dominate as a skillful run from winger Alexandre Roumat set up Ramos to score his third conversion and complete the rout.
France was a different animal at the breakdown. They had a massive advantage over their visitors and made the All Blacks work hard in their half. The All Blacks were guilty of loose passing and handling errors as they struggled to deal with France’s physicality in the air and the tackle.
After a pause for the injured New Zealand flyhalf Will Jordan to be checked by the doctor, France continued to exploit their advantage in the rucks. The abrasive and swashbuckling French forwards were rewarded with two tries in the second half as Paul Boudehent and Emmanuel Meafou scored on their international debuts.
France captain Gregory Alldritt was forced off at the end of the opening half after being hit by the knee of New Zealand center Malo Tuitama. The All Blacks were then reduced to 14 men in the 50th minute when fullback Will Jordan was yellow-carded for dangerously contesting a high kick with the ball. Despite being a man short, the All Blacks were still able to find their way to another victory in Paris. Their 82-12 win was their fourth in five games this season. They have won nine of their last 12 Tests against France. The sides meet again in the opening round of 2019 Six Nations matches in Dublin on February 16.
