Despite a tour marked by close defeats, France’s rugby team faced challenges including a lack of depth, indiscipline, and a failure to establish consistent automatisms. Questionable officiating throughout the tour also contributed to their struggles.
However, the tour was not without its positives. The third line, featuring Mickaël Guillard, impressed and appears set for a long tenure with the national team. Alexandre Fischer, another Bayonne player, also emerged as a strong performer, noted for his tackling. Key players like captain Gaël Fickou and scrum-half Nolan Le Garrec demonstrated leadership. Théo Attissogbe of Pau showcased his considerable talent, and Baptiste Erdocio and Hugo Auradou, despite initial criticism, showed resilience and improvement.
Conversely, several players underperformed. Tighthead props Rabah Slimani, Georges-Henri Colombe, and Demba Bamba failed to make a meaningful impact.Fly-halves Joris Segonds and Antoine Hastoy,playing in the shadow of Romain Ntamack and Matthieu Jalibert,did not seize their opportunities to challenge the established hierarchy.
Despite the setbacks, the young French squad gained valuable experience in adversity, perhaps fostering growth. The team departs New Zealand with their heads held high, looking forward to a well-deserved rest before commencing a demanding rugby schedule in early September.
