Rugby: Captain Olivon for the Barbarians, called Benod

RCT captain Charles Olivon against Lyon in the European Challenge Final in Marseille, May 27, 2022 Nicholas Tokat

The Papas announced, Thursday, the appointment of Tolunet Charles Olivon as captain of the Barbarians, which also includes Clermontois Damien Benaud, for the match against England on June 19.

“Two major players in the re-emergence of French rugby are crossing the channel to help us take on England. If they don’t stick around, they’ll get past you… Charles Olivon is our captain, and Damien Benaud,” thus the rugby club tweeted an invite.

The Barbarians are scheduled to face England on June 19 at Twickenham.

This year under the leadership of France 15th coach Fabien Galthey and his staff, this prestigious team will consist mainly of players called up by the Blues for the tour in Japan, with two matches scheduled against the Cherry Blossoms on July 2 and 9.

Galthey said in an interview with the twice-weekly Midi Olympique that Toulon prop Jean-Baptiste Gros and third line Lyon Dylan Cretain have also been called up.

It could be boosted by international superstars such as South Africa from Toulon Chaselin Colby, Fijian from Bristol Bears Simi Radradra, New Zealander from France’s Njani Laumab, Scots from Racing 92 Finn Russell or England’s Danny Kerr and George. Kruis, Galthié explained at the end of March.