Antoine Dupont will line up at fly-half for France against South Africa on Friday at 21:10 in the Championnat des nations, with Maxime Lucu wearing the number 9 jersey.
Head coach Fabien Galthié named the experimental half-back pairing for the fifth-round fixture. Observers expected the two scrum-halves to be deployed in the reverse configuration as the selection panel manages a shortage of specialist fly-halves due to injuries.
- Pace and Possession: Bookmakers adjusting lines should factor in Lucu’s game management alongside Dupont’s freedom.
South Africa assistant coach Mzwandile Stick stated on Thursday that he expects the two players to exchange positions frequently during the match.
“Positions 9 and 10 are where things are going to get complicated.”
explained Stick in a pre-match press conference.
“I have absolutely no doubt that, even if Dupont wears the number 10, he will certainly have the freedom to do what he wants (…) Remember also that Lucu has already filled in at the number 10 position in the past (…) So I think that between the two of them, they will probably have a lot of freedom to continue to exchange positions during open play.”
| Player | Assigned Number | Primary Position | Touring Experience |
|---|---|---|---|
| Antoine Dupont | 10 | Scrum-half | Captain / Test Regular |
| Maxime Luc | 9 | Scrum-half | Senior Squad Member |
South Africa captain Siya Kolisi said that he was not surprised to see Dupont selected at fly-half, pointing to modern rugby’s increasing emphasis on player versatility. Kolisi cited examples such as South African centre Andre Esterhuizen operating occasionally in the back row.
“I think it’s something normal in rugby.”
stated Kolisi, adding that Dupont has previously played the position for his club.
“Dupont has also played in that position for his club before. He’s a good enough player to do it, and he’s proven it over the years.”
said Kolisi.
For Stick, denying the French side time and space remains essential for the back-to-back world champions.
“Dupont, once he’s off to a good start, will consistently be better than you, and he’s really good at making good decisions under pressure,” said Stick.
“And on the other side you have a player like Lucu, who is probably one of the best at game management. He also has a good kicking game.”
concluded Stick.
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