Past meetings between the two
It is typically impossible to notice when green and blue collide. Ireland’s thrilling slugfest victory on France’s most recent trip to Dublin two years ago is now frequently brought up in discussions about the “greatest Six Nations games.”
Ireland easily won 38–17 in Marseille last year. Even though Paul Willemse’s first-half red card and Antoine Dupont’s absence hindered the French effort, it was still viewed as a success for Ireland.
On paper, this year’s race already looked fantastic with Dupont returning and the stakes appropriately high, but the events of the previous week have added even more excitement to the newest chapter of their rivalry.
A gigantic clash
When it comes to encounters between France and Ireland, the old saying that “styles make fights” is accurate. These two have distinguished themselves as Six Nations heavyweights during the past several years, when the championship’s depth and strength may have never been greater. Their yearly ding-dongs are nearly always crucial to the title’s outcome.
Although the maths may not be entirely clear-cut—England has slim hopes—these two will be crouching in their corners on Saturday afternoon as the defending champions, the reigning champions, the history-chasing contenders, and a number one contender who is capable of delivering a knockout blow. Only one will be standing after 80 thrilling, demanding minutes.
Team news – France
With Fabien Galthie sticking with a formidable bench consisting of seven forwards and only one back, Romain Ntamack returns from suspension at fly half for France’s match against Ireland.
After being sent off against Wales on the opening weekend, Ntamack was suspended for France’s previous two games. However, he immediately returns, playing in the halves with Toulouse colleague Antoine Dupont.
Thomas Ramos moves to full-back as a result of his selection, while Leo Barre, who played well against Italy in Rome, is completely cut from the team, leaving scrum half Maxime Lucu as the only back on the bench for a crucial Six Nations match.
Team News – Ireland
In today’s crucial Guinness Six Nations match against championship rivals France, Ireland interim manager Simon Easterby is optimistic that versatile back Jamie Osborne will excel in a new environment.
Left-footed Leinster player Osborne has been moved from full-back to right flank in Mack Hansen’s absence due to a minor quad injury.
The 23-year-old has never worn the number 14 shirt before, although he has played on the left wing for his province, most notably in victories against La Rochelle and Bath in the Investec Champions Cup.
