Antoine Dupont Returns to France XVs, Praised as ‘Better Than Ever’

France flanker Francois Cros has stated that Antoine Dupont has come back to XVs “better than ever” following his Olympic sevens gold medal victory during the summer. Dupont has participated in three matches for Toulouse this season, securing victories in all of them, contributing to his team’s leading position in the Top 14. The 27-year-old scrum-half, Dupont, has been appointed captain for France’s initial Autumn Nations Series fixture against Japan this Saturday. This marks his first appearance in international XVs since France’s significant home Rugby World Cup quarter-final loss to South Africa last October. After dedicating 2024 to sevens rugby, the athlete, previously named World Player of the Year, contributed to France’s 28-7 victory over Fiji by setting up one try and scoring two himself, securing their inaugural gold medal at the Paris Olympics in July. Cros commented, “It was something incredible for him and French rugby.” He added, “Since he’s come back, after having a good break, he’s better than what he was before. So it’s obviously a pleasure to have him back.” Following an extended period away, Dupont made his return last month, achieving a hat-trick in 13 minutes after coming off the bench for Toulouse in their 48-14 win against Clermont. While he missed this year’s Six Nations and France’s summer tour of Argentina to concentrate on mastering the shortened rugby format, he still played for his club, Toulouse, whenever feasible, playing a key role in their Investec Champions Cup triumph in May. For the upcoming fixture against Eddie Jones’ team, Dupont will be joined by his Toulouse colleague Thomas Ramos, who is set to start at fly-half over the usual number 10, Matthieu Jalibert. Dupont will also reassume the captaincy from number eight Gregory Alldritt. Cros stated, “The question didn’t even need to be asked, it’s natural to us for him to be captain.” He further added, “Since he’s come back, his standards have been the same if not better. There was no doubt about that subject.” The French squad for the match includes: Barre; Penaud, Gailleton, Moefana, Bielle-Biarrey; Ramos, Dupont (capt); Gros, Mauvaka, Tatafu, Flament, Meafou, Cros, Roumat, Alldritt. Replacements are: Marchand, Wardi, Colombe, Guillard, Boudehent, Lucu, Jalibert, Fickou.