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Just four rounds of play remain in France’s domestic championship this season. Uncertainties remains at both ends of the spectrum as champions Stade Français are still not safe from relegation. For others the dream of reaching the play-offs is very much alive as is the prospect of European Champions Cup Qualification. Involved will be a host of Americas Players in Top 14 – Week 23.
The round will get underway with Grenoble hosting Bordeaux in a 10th vs 7th match-up. An away win would significantly bolster Bordeaux’s prospects of appearing in the post season. Former Puma Francisco Gomez Kodela will feature as a replacement tighthead prop specialist for Bordeaux.
A key fixture will take place in the heart of Paris as the Gonzalo Quesada coached Stade Français need competition points to keep themselves afloat. Despite winning last season’s Top 14 championship the Parisians are struggling and must beat Oyonnax on Saturday. Involved will be arguably the greatest player lost to Argentina in the professional era, Sergio Parisse.
On the Atlantic coast mid-tabled side La Rochelle will host the on-form Montpellier who are eyeing a return to the play-offs. Named on the bench for the home side is Argentine-Italian Leandro Cedaro. The Chaco province product may be set for a place on the tour of Argentina and North America given the retirement of veterans second-rowers and his form this season.
The 11th placed Pau host leaders Clermont in a tough home assignment on Saturday. Making his return to the field for the visitors is the Oyonnax-bound Jamie Cudmore. The Canadian is to be joined on the bench by young Puma Patricio Fernández.
Saturday’s fourth and final fixture will see Brive looking to bounce back from a horror show against Agen in week 22. Their opponents, Racing 92 are to field a depleted lineup as the club prepares to play in the Champions Cup Final in Lyon next weekend. Both Manuel Carizza and Juan Imhoff are among the rested Racing 92 stars.
Week 23 will come to a close on Sunday with two matches. Toulouse and Toulon are to play host to Agen and Castres respectively. Lineups for both fixtures will be announced on Saturday afternoon.
