North Faces Former Foes as Provence Rugby Clash with Vannes in Pro D2 Showdown
Vannes, France – RC Vannes face their first major test of teh Pro D2 season on Friday night (9 p.m. local time) as they host a formidable Provence Rugby side. Led by former french national team coach Philippe Saint-André, Provence Rugby boasts a squad brimming with international experience adn established Top 14 talent. A key figure for the visitors will be Welsh rugby legend George North, who is settling into life in France after a storied career with Wales and the British & Irish Lions.
North, a center/winger, joined Provence Rugby for the 2024-2025 season, marking his first foray into club rugby outside of the UK. His arrival immediately injected a wealth of experience into a squad already chaired by Denis Philipon. With 121 caps for Wales, North ranks as the third most-capped player in Welsh rugby history and is renowned for his finishing ability, having scored 47 international tries – the second-highest total for his nation.
However, North’s start to life in Pro D2 was initially hampered by injury. He arrived in France recovering from a ruptured Achilles tendon sustained during the Wales-Italy match in March 2024 – a game that proved to be his final appearance for the Welsh national team. He made his debut for Provence Rugby in January and has quickly become a key component of the team, forming a strong partnership with Inga Finau.
Despite a recent setback – a defeat to Valence-Romans (30-33) – which ended Provence Rugby’s year-and-a-half winning streak,North’s presence is sure to be a meaningful factor as they travel to Brittany to face Jean-Noël spitzer’s RC Vannes. The match promises to be a thrilling encounter between two sides vying for promotion in the competitive Pro D2 landscape.
Keywords: pro D2, RC Vannes, provence Rugby, George North, Philippe Saint-andré, Rugby, France, Welsh Rugby, Jean-Noël Spitzer.