6 Nations Tournament: the second row of Perpignan Tuilagi, called to replace Taofifenua, ill

Après les U20, place aux grands. MAXPPP – Laurent THEVENOT

Le XV de France fait son retour demain, depuis sa défaite en quarts de finale de Coupe du Monde face à l'Afrique du Sud, avec une arrivée de dernière minute, celle de Posolo Tuilagi, est à compter dans les rangs tricolores. 

Perpignan's young second line Posolo Tuilagi has joined the French XV, to replace the “suffering” Romain Taofifenua, before the match against Ireland on Friday in Marseille, the French Federation announced on Thursday rugby on the eve of the first match of the Six Nations Tournament.

"Romain Taofifenua has been unwell since yesterday (Wednesday). As a result, Fabien Galthié spoke with Franck Azéma (manager of Perpignan): they decided to integrate Posolo Tuilagi into the group France", indicated the FFR in a press release.

A first selection nevertheless in doubt

The colossal Tuilagi (1.92 m for 145 kg), called as a precaution, is not yet sure of experiencing his first selection since the "final composition of the sheet of match will be stopped the same day,” added the Federation.

At 19 years old, the young Usap second line presents a rare profile in France due to his size and power.

Taofifenua (33 years old, 49 caps) was to start the match against the XV du Trèfle on the bench.

Beaten in mid-October by the Springboks (29-28), future world champions, the XV of France returns to the field this Friday against Ireland, who won the Grand Slam last ;#39;last year, opening the 2024 Six Nations Tournament.