France boss Fabien Galthie is grappling with an injury concern as his team head to Cardiff
Antoine Dupont training ahead of the clash with Wales(Image: X.com)
Antoine Dupont appears to have been trialled in a new position ahead of France’s Six Nations clash with Wales as Fabien Galthie grapples with a mounting injury crisis in midfield.
A video shared on social media this week shows the France captain appearing to train at inside centre in the build-up to Sunday’s trip to Cardiff.
While it cannot be confirmed how long Dupont operated in that role, nor whether it represents a genuine tactical switch, the footage has inevitably sparked intrigue.
In the clip, Dupont – widely regarded as one of the best players in world rugby – is seen lining up at 12, bursting through a tackle and finishing sharply.
His stocky frame, low centre of gravity and explosive power would, in theory, make him well-suited to the physical demands of inside centre.
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It comes after France were dealt a significant blow with Nicolas Depoortere ruled out of the Principality Stadium encounter.
The 23-year-old was outstanding in the 36-14 dismantling of Ireland in Paris, beating more defenders than any other player on the pitch, but has since withdrawn with muscle soreness.
There are also concerns over his midfield partner Yoram Moefana, who is nursing a knee knock sustained against Ireland and remains a doubt.
With two frontline centres either sidelined or struggling, Galthie is searching for solutions.
Uncapped Pau youngster Fabien Brau-Boirie and Emilien Gailleton have trained in midfield this week, but the possibility of shifting Dupont would represent a major, if albeit temporary, change of tack.
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One theory floated by a French supporter who posted the training clip suggested Dupont could start at scrum-half before moving to inside centre later in the game, with Baptiste Serin introduced at nine.
That would allow France to retain Dupont’s influence around the ruck early on, before using his carrying threat closer to the gainline as the contest unfolds.
Given there are big question marks about who wears the 12 for Wales after Ben Thomas came in for criticism following his display against England last week, it’s a position of much debate for both sides heading into round two.
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France travel to Cardiff brimming with confidence after brushing Ireland aside in their opener.
Wales, still licking their wounds from a heavy defeat by England, will be desperate to respond on home soil.