Match between two number 8s

Grégory Alldritt and Marko Gazzotti, both called up to the French rugby team, will face each other Sunday evening at Marcel-Deflandre in the Top 14 competition. The match is expected to be highly competitive, featuring two experienced players in the number 8 position.

Players' physical profiles

Alldritt, standing 1.91 meters tall and weighing 115 kg, will face Gazzotti, who is 1.92 meters tall and weighs 110 kg. Alldritt represents Stade Rochelais, while Gazzotti plays for UBB. The match is anticipated to be a highlight of the seventh day of the Top 14 season.

Gazzotti's background and strengths

Gazzotti, known for his strength and power, is a former U20 world champion trained in Grenoble. He has shown high-level performance in the Champions Cup final. His manager, Yannick Bru, describes him as ambitious and a formidable player in the scrum and rucks.

Alldritt's recent history with the French team

Alldritt has 58 selections with the French team. He was recalled by coach Fabien Galthié in October 2025 after being dropped for nearly a year. He had previously captained the team in the absence of Antoine Dupont and has since been working to regain his form and position in the team.

Competition for the number 8 position

The number 8 position has seen increased competition, especially with Alldritt's absence. Players like Mickaël Guillard and Gazzotti have emerged as potential contenders. Both players are part of the 42-player squad selected for the November matches and the upcoming World Cup.

Upcoming matches and World Cup timeline

The French team will face Fiji on November 7 in Lyon, South Africa on November 13 in Paris, and Argentina on November 21 at the Stade de France. The 2027 World Cup, hosted by Australia, will begin in October 2027 with the opening match in Perth.