France captain Antoine Dupont is back for the 2023 Six Nations, aiming to thwart Ireland's bid for a record third consecutive title. The star scrumhalf returns after a gold medal winning performance at the rugby sevens at the Paris Games. Ireland faces challenges with caretaker coach Simon Easterby leading the side while Andy Farrell is with the British & Irish Lions. Meanwhile, Wales seeks to break their losing streak and England grapples with injuries ahead of their opener against Ireland.
Captain Antoine Dupont says he is “happy to be back” as France seek to deny Ireland an unprecedented third successive Six Nations title.
“He’s got such an aura that has a big impact on the squad so his return is important for us,” said France coach Fabien Galthie.Standing in France’s way are powerful Ireland, bidding to become the first side to win the title three years in a row since the tournament was expanded to six teams in 2000. “If we don’t keep improving then someone else will take the reins,” said Doris. “We’ve got England at home first up and it’s hard to look beyond that for now.”Welsh rugby is in crisis after a national record of 12 defeats in a row, including losses in all five of their matches in last year’s Six Nations.
“There is no expectation on us,” he said. “People are writing us off, but I have said this before, you write us off at your peril.” Northampton lock Alex Coles, Leicester scrumhalf Jack van Poortvliet and Harlequins No 8 Alex Dombrandt have also been ruled out of the match in Dublin.
SIX NATIONS FRANCE IRELAND ANTOINE DUPONT WALES ENGLAND RUGBY UNION
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