Ratier makes eight changes as France seek response to 81-12 Black Ferns humiliation

France head coach François Ratier has made eight changes to his starting XV for the second WXV Global Series Test against New Zealand in Whangārei, turning to more experienced players after his side were thrashed 81-12 in Hamilton a week ago.

The heavy defeat came after Ratier fielded a youthful lineup that included several debutants for the first Test. For the rematch, he has recalled Émilie Boulard at fullback, Gabrielle Vernier at centre and Carla Arbez at fly-half. Ambre Mwayembe and Cloé Correa have also returned to the squad following the completion of their respective bans.

Further changes see Anaïs Grando come in on the wing in place of Léa Murie, while Mathilde Lazarko takes over at hooker from Élisa Riffonneau, who had started France’s last three Tests. Lock Lou Roboam earns her first start after coming off the bench in both the Canada and Black Ferns fixtures.

Ratier acknowledged the difficulty of the situation facing his developing squad but framed the tour as a necessary step in their growth. “Naturally, they would have preferred to kick off their campaign with a win back in France,” he said. “But instead, they’re making their debut in New Zealand against what is currently the best team in the world.”

The coach was measured in his assessment of where his side stand. “It’s simply a matter of making sure everyone is on the same page regarding what just happened, where we currently stand in our cycle, and where we go from here. The younger ones listen, they learn, and one day they will be in a position to perform against this calibre of team — and they’ll remember that things weren’t always this way.”

France have already lost twice to New Zealand on this tour. A third consecutive defeat would extend a difficult run heading into the 2027 Women’s Six Nations, and a fourth — should the series extend further — would deepen questions about the squad’s readiness at the highest level.

France matchday 23 v New Zealand — WXV Global Series 2026

1. Émilie Boulard; 14. Marie Ibañez, 13. Gabrielle Vernier, 12. Teani Feleu, 11. Anaïs Grando; 10. Carla Arbez, 9. Alexandre Chambon (captain); 1. Ambre Mwayembe, 2. Mathilde Lazarko, 3. Assia Khalfaoui, 4. Lou Roboam, 5. Cloé Correa, 6. Axelle Berthoumieu, 7. Mouna Toure, 8. Léa Champon.

Replacements: 16. Élisa Riffonneau, 17. Amalia Bazola Allieres, 18. Marion Latonnelle, 19. Julia Grosz, 20. Elsa Peyras, 21. Lylou Pedussaud, 22. Lina Queyroi, 23. Charlie Gauyat.