France Selection Policy Hits NZ Rugby Hard
The All Blacks are preparing to face France in the opening round of the Nations Championship this July. However, evidence suggests the New Zealand side may once again encounter a significantly weakened French squad.
This potential roster shortage comes a year after a controversial three-Test series in New Zealand. During that series, Les Bleus traveled to the southern hemisphere with a severely understrength team.
The Top 14 Scheduling Conflict
Head coach Fabien Galthie faces a logistical challenge as the encounter takes place just one week after the Top 14 final. Galthie will not select any players from the clubs competing in that final.
While reports from Midi Olympique indicate a policy change allowing the coach to pick any player for mid-year Tests, this flexibility only applies to the subsequent matches against Japan and the Wallabies.
This situation could provide Dave Rennie with a more relaxed introduction to the All Blacks hotseat. It follows a 2025 period where Scott Robertson’s squad faced several scares against a third-string French side.
Historical Tension and “Disrespect”
NZ Rugby has previously expressed significant frustration over France’s approach to these tours. Reports indicate the organization was “livid” regarding the tourists’ strategy during the previous series.
All Blacks legend Justin Marshall previously described the practise of bringing underpowered squads as “disrespectful” to the international window. He noted that a previous French side featured an average age of 25 and an average of only 9.3 caps.
Marshall highlighted that 49% of that squad had no caps at all, characterizing it as a development team. He argued that fans deserve to see the best players in the world, especially since New Zealand sends its top talent to France in November.
Future Scenarios and Preparation
The availability of star players like Antoine Dupont remains uncertain. He could feature if Toulouse exits the Top 14 play-offs early, though they are currently favourites to reach the final, leading by eight points.
Galthie, 57, may choose to maintain his previous approach, as France has historically placed less emphasis on July internationals. Midi Olympique reports that the coaching staff is “proceeding cautiously” based on player fitness and workload.
France is scheduled to prepare for the competition with an ‘A’ side match against England in Vannes on June 19. The main squad is expected to fly to New Zealand on June 23, once the Top 14 finalists are determined.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why might France field a weakened team in July?
The match occurs one week after the Top 14 final and coach Fabien Galthie will not select players from the clubs participating in that final.
What was Justin Marshall’s criticism of the French touring squad?
Marshall called the approach “disrespectful,” citing a squad that was essentially a development team with an average of 9.3 caps and nearly half the players having no international caps.
When does the French squad travel to New Zealand?
The squad is scheduled to fly to New Zealand on June 23, following the decision of the Top 14 finalists.