PARIS — In a decisive move for their Six Nations championship campaign, France has announced 24-year-old Bordeaux Bègles flanker Temo Matiu will make his international debut against England this Saturday. The selection comes as Head Coach Fabien Galthié reshuffles his lineup following last week’s dramatic 50-40 defeat to Scotland.
Matiu replaces Anthony Jelonch, who remains sidelined after failing concussion protocols from the Edinburgh match. The debutant carries a rich rugby heritage—his New Zealand-born father, Legi Matiu, earned two caps for France in 2000.
Substantial reinforcements arrive in the second row with the return of Thibaud Flament and Emmanuel Meafou, adding significant physical presence to the pack. This tactical adjustment moves Charles Ollivon to the number eight position, replacing Oscar Jegou who received a four-week suspension for making contact with the eye area of Scotland’s Ewan Ashman.
Further changes see Pierre-Louis Barassi entering the midfield after Nicolas Depoortere sustained a shoulder injury. Barassi will partner with Yoram Moefana in the centers.
The championship hangs in a delicate balance as France enters the final round tied with both Ireland and Scotland. Due to their superior points differential, France can retain the Six Nations title with a bonus-point victory over England at Stade de France, regardless of the outcome between Ireland and Scotland in Dublin.