Nice (AFP)
A D-1 of the first list of 28 names for the Six Nations Tournament, the XV of France Wednesday increased the pace of its preparation for the shock against England, February 2, without his coach or his captain but with his supporters.
Fabien Galthié and Charles Ollivon were indeed in London for the official presentation of the Tournament but that did not prevent the Blues from getting to work after two relatively calm days: under the eye of the staff and more than 200 fans, the 41 French people present in Nice have increased the pace and intensity of their training.
It must be said that, about ten days from the kickoff of the Tournament, serious things begin for the Blues, who will see Thursday fourteen of their return to their club to compete in the 14th day of Top 14.
In the meantime, in front of a good-natured audience and armed with blue, white and red flags, the XV of France started its session late. But the opposition between the white jumpsuits and the blue ones did not fail to delight the supporters who came to discover this new look France team.
They were not disappointed: before the dedications and other selfies, the Blues gave their all, proof is the tired faces of some after two hours of training "ball in play", that is to say where the keys, mauls or melee, which can slow the rhythm, are not played. On the contrary, the ball is continuously alive and the pace is hectic.
The day ended with workshops organized around conquering work for some while others were content with a trip to the gym.
The XV of France is gathered in Nice until January 31. The group will be reduced to 28 players on Thursday. The composition of the team that will start the match against the English will be announced on January 30.
© 2020 AFP