Pauline Bourdon Sansus, the newly appointed captain of the French women's rugby team, is set to lead the side in the upcoming WXV Global Series. This appointment comes as a surprise to many, as the 30-year-old scrum-half takes on the role from Manae Feleu, who is currently focusing on her medicine studies and will be out for the next two months. Despite the unexpected nature of her selection, Bourdon Sansus is embracing the challenge with a sense of pride and determination.
In an interview, Bourdon Sansus expressed her gratitude and humility, stating, "A great sense of pride. Being captain of the French team is something exceptional, and it wasn’t necessarily something I was expecting. But I’ve already held a leadership role in the team for a while, and Manae remains the captain; she’s the one who usually wears the armband. The two of us make a real team and complement each other well. It’s a bonus, but first and foremost I’m a rugby player, and my goal is to perform and help the team on the pitch."
The French team is currently facing some challenges with injuries and pregnancy-related absences. The second row reserves are particularly low, with both Hina Ikahehegi and Marine Kazmierczak out with injuries, and Masoussou Fall Raclot expecting a baby. This has led to the inclusion of Charlotte Escudero, who is usually seen at No.8, in the lock forward position. Uncapped Blagnac second row Julia Grosz has also been brought into the squad, along with back-row forwards Khoudedia Cissokho and Isis Espuga. Former France Sevens star Valentine Lothoz has been included as a wing.
The squad for the 2026 WXV Global Series includes a mix of experienced and new players. The forwards consist of Mathilde Lazarko, Elisa Riffonneau, Amalia Bazola Allières, Rose Bernadou, Yllana Brosseau, Annaëlle Deshaye, Assia Khalfaoui, Maïlys Mailagi, Ambre Mwayembe, Cloé Correa, Charlotte Escudero, Julia Grosz, Lou Roboam, Siobhan Soqeta, Axelle Berthoumieu, Léa Champon, Khoudedia Cissokho, Isis Espuga, Elsa Peyras, and Mouna Toure. The backs include Pauline Bourdon Sansus, Alexandra Chambon, Lylou Pedussaud, Carla Arbez, Elodie Fernandez, Lina Queyroi, Lili Dezou, Teani Feleu, Aubane Rousset, Gabrielle Vernier, Kelly Arbey, Emilie Boulard, Morgane Bourgeois, Alice Grandhomme, Anaïs Grando, Marie Ibanez, Chloé Jacquet, Valentine Lothoz, and Léa Murie.
This appointment marks a significant moment for Bourdon Sansus, who has been a key player in the team's success. Her leadership skills and on-field performance will be crucial in guiding the team through the upcoming challenges. With a mix of experienced and new players, the French team is poised to make a strong showing in the WXV Global Series, and Bourdon Sansus will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in their success.
