In an eagerly anticipated rugby clash, France is set to welcome back fly-half Romain Ntamack for the first time in nearly 18 months. This significant return comes amidst a series of lineup changes and notable absences for both teams. For the French side, several key players will miss the opening match against Wales at Stade de France, including winger Damian Penaud, who has been sidelined due to a toe injury. Théo Attissogbé will step into Penaud’s position, marking a shift in the team’s dynamic.

The French team, under coach Fabien Galthié, has undergone several adjustments. Gaël Fickou, Thibaud Flament, and Charles Ollivon are among those unavailable for the game. In response, Galthié has introduced new faces like Pierre-Louis Barassi and Alexandre Roumat, while Grégory Alldritt returns to the back row. Additionally, Thomas Ramos moves to full-back, and Attissogbé takes over on the wing. Notably, Hugo Auradou and Oscar Jegou have been included on the bench, despite previous legal issues that were subsequently dropped. Galthié chose not to address questions regarding their inclusion, focusing instead on the players’ performances.

For Wales, the match presents a mix of fresh talent and experienced veterans. Henry Thomas, previously aligned with England, makes his first start for Wales, adding depth to the team. The young hooker Evan Lloyd also earns his debut, stepping up in the absence of Dewi Lake and Ryan Elias. Head coach Warren Gatland has emphasized the positive atmosphere within the squad, despite Wales’ recent string of losses. Experienced players like Josh Adams and Liam Williams return to bolster the team’s confidence and provide leadership. Gatland highlighted the importance of balancing experience with new energy, aiming to break Wales' record of 12 consecutive defeats.

The upcoming Six Nations opener underscores the resilience and adaptability of both teams. Despite challenges, the focus remains on delivering strong performances and fostering team unity. With key players returning and new talents emerging, both France and Wales aim to showcase their best form on the international stage, setting the tone for what promises to be an exciting tournament.