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Star man Alldritt urges impressive France to stay humble

Gregory Alldritt - Player of the Match 2025
Despite cruising to a seven-try victory against scoreless Wales, Guinness Player of the Match Grégory Alldritt rang a note of caution after France's victory.

"It was a big team performance today," the 27-year-old said, with some understatement, having helped his team nil Wales - something that hasn't been done since 1998. "It's incredible to play in [the Stade de France], outstanding."

Indeed, the stadium in Saint-Denis continues to provide the sort of atmosphere that sets it apart in international sport. It was an atmosphere worth of this team, who were often unplayable for Warren Gatland's side.

"The key was to play as a team," said the La Rochelle man, who appeared delighted with the spread of tries throughout the team. "We had some forwards tries and some backs tries. But we only did 20% of the job - we've got four more games to go. We've got to stay focused and go back to work on Monday."

In a team full of world-class players, Alldritt stood out. As well as scoring the try in the 78th minute that put the stamp on Les Bleus' result, Alldritt topped the French charts for carries (18), metres carried (90), and successful tackles (19), while even coming fifth for passes made (nine).

Alldritt was asked about the return of Antoine Dupont to the Championship, having missed last year as he embarked on a successful sabbatical in sevens that ultimately led to gold at the Olympics (at this very same venue). "We know the team is different when he's here," responded Alldritt. "He's the best player in the world and we're really happy to have him in the team. It brings lots of energy to the other players."

It was between the boot of Dupont and his fly-half partner Romain Ntamack that so much of Wales' punishment was meted out - namely with cross-field kicks. "We've got a pretty massive pack, so maybe their defence was trying to be tighter," suggested Alldritt. "[Them defending] narrower brought more space outside."

Would he be drawn on France finally being able to regain the Championship title, three years after their last? Of course not.

"We want to win it, but we need to stay humble. Ireland are really strong this year, and England are coming back strong as well. Be humble."

France v England, Saturday 8th February, 16:45 GMT.