France were not only crowned the champions of the 2022 Guinness Six Nations, they also earnt the title of Grand Slam winners. Winning the Grand Slam means they secured victories over every side they faced throughout the tournament; it was their first title since 2010 which is surprising from a side with so much dominance.
Les Bleus celebrated a perfect tournament with an emphatic victory over England winning 25-13 in Paris, a fairy-tale ending for a side with such passion. Tries came from Gael Fickou and Francois Cros within the first half, and with two penalties being converted by Melvyn Jaminet, their win was sealed. England come back in the final 40 with a fighting spirit thanks to a try from Freddie Steward, a young talent who has recently featured in World Rugby’s 2022 dream team of the year. However, Antoine Dupont (World Rugby Player of the Year 2022) put any doubters minds at rest when securing Frances third try and consequently their 10th Grand Slam at a rocking Stade de France!
France will hope to put on an impressive display in 2023’s tournament ahead of their home World Cup later this year. With an array of impressive young talent and a league praised for its current success, Le Bleus are set up for another prosperous Six Nations campaign - continuing from last year’s success.
Standout players to watch out for in the 2023 Guinness Six Nations
Antoine Dupont is a name constantly in discussion amongst rugby fans, widely considered as already one of the greatest scrum halves of all time with his immense speed, strength and ability to spot gaps. Dupont is a standout player who always delivers for Les Bleus. Recent form suggests the star shows no sign of stopping his rampant form, as he scored two tries in a convincing win for Toulouse only two weeks ahead of France’s first Six Nations Match against Italy.
Damien Penaud is another stand out French player who plays his rugby at Clermont, a historic Top 14 side who play an impressive brand of rugby. His stats from 2022 speak for themselves, scoring more tries than any other player for a tier 1 nation and a tackle evasion rate of 79%. Supporters drawing in on Twickenham will be looking forward to seeing his ruthless finishing ability.
What to expect at Twickenham Stadium for England v France
England v France is a real test for Borthwick and his team at Twickenham, the final home game of the tournament and a great way to show the skills developed and how well England can perform in the final tournament before the 2023 Rugby World Cup in France. The hosts always bring the heat when coming to Twickenham.
Look at our very limited availability ahead of the upcoming 2023 Guinness Six Nations for this clash of two rugby giants HERE.
