France Under-20s scrum-half and captain Nolann Le Garrec revealed his Top 14 experience is a big factor behind assured displays like the one he delivered against Wales.
Le Garrec has tasted senior rugby with Racing 92 and demonstrated his game management skills perfectly while orchestrating the 36-19 win at Cardiff Arms Park in the second game of Thursday’s triple header.
The 19-year-old finds things easier now he has picked up some vital experience at the highest level of the domestic game in France.
“I learned a lot from the Top 14 and the Six Nations Under-20s last year,” he said.
“On many points – the attack, the defence and how to prepare for and manage a game.
“It’s more easy for me now because I’ve got a little bit of experience and I try to help my teammates and do my best.
“It was a great game for us. We were disappointed about the last two games against England and Italy so it was important to react against Wales.
“We talked about the attack last week and we decided to play and hold the ball against Wales because there are problems when teams carry the ball.
“We decided to prepare a good game and play, play and play.”
Le Garrec’s leadership is a massive asset for Les Bleuets coach Philippe Boher who tipped his charge to make the senior France side in time for the 2023 Rugby World Cup.
“He’s a good leader for the team, it’s his second year in the Under-20s and he still has one more year to go,” he said.
“He’s impressive and very clear in his vision; he always makes the right decisions.
“He kicked well so he must continue to work and I hope to see him maybe for 2023 in France, who knows.”
France are on a collision course with Sean Lineen’s Scotland who will be desperate for a positive response after slipping to a 43-3 defeat to Italy.
And neither Boher nor his No.9 are taking the challenge lightly.
“We are focusing on our progression, playing good rugby and trying to score tries,” the head coach revealed.
“We know that Scotland have a good defence, that they are strong at rucks where they win a lot of ball and we must be careful.”
“Scotland didn’t do a great game against Italy but they have character and we need to stay focused,” added Le Garrec.
The young half-back hopes to lead his side out again with the captaincy being a role he treasures.
“I am really happy to captain the side, I like responsibilities and it’s a great honour for me also.”
