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FWC: BEL v SEN live on SN Extra'Walks into 90 percent of international sides': Ex-All Blacks' warning over France's Dupont replacement
Elena Abbott • July 2nd, 2026 10:30 am
Maxime Lucu | Photo: Photosport
Despite Antoine Dupont’s notable absence, a former All Black warns France should not be underestimated.
A calf injury suffered playing for Top 14 side Toulouse ruled the superstar halfback out of the series in New Zealand, removing some shine from the Nations Championship opener at Te Kaha.
It's led to widespread belief the upcoming Test could be a relative walkover for the hosts, but ex-All Blacks halfback Bred Weber disagrees.
The 18-Test international told Sport Nation's Millsy and Guy on Tuesday he believes France - even without their talismanic leader - have a side capable of spoiling new head coach Dave Rennie's first match in charge.
“A lot of their big internationals are available, most of their big dogs, particularly in the backs, are here," Weber said.
Brad Weber | Photo: Photosport
“It's certainly a much better side than they brought over last year. Certainly one that makes me nervous as an All Blacks fan.
With Dupont sidelined, Maxime Lucu has been named as the starting halfback for France.
An expert in the art of the No. 9, Weber said Lucu is a talented player whose capabilities shouldn’t be dismissed.
“Lucu probably walks into 90 percent of the international starting sides around the world, but unfortunately the bloke in front of him is one of the best we've ever seen," he explained.
“He’s a bloody good rugby player."
Weber explained Lucu has a different - but equally impressive - skill set to Dupont, with game management and kicking among his key strengths.
Why the All Blacks need to select Ruben Love to face France | The Rugby Run
However, the All Blacks also look promising, and Weber knows first-hand what an asset Rennie is.
Weber played under Rennie for the Chiefs from 2014-2017 and has full faith his former coach will deliver on his lofty expectations.
“He just had an uncanny ability to get an extra two, three, four, five percent out there by how he connects with the players.
“At that level, that extra two to five percent could be the difference between winning games,” he explained.
The All Blacks meet France at Christchurch’s Te Kaha Stadium on July 4, starting at 7.10pm.
Listen to the full interview here:
