The call‑up of Sevens star Virimi Vakatawa to France's Six Nations squad was a calculated gamble by Guy Novès serving as both his most intriguing decision and proof of a major problem in French rugby.
At 23 years of age there is no question that the Fijian‑born flyer is the star attraction in the French Sevens outfit, and has established himself as the most prolific offloader on the circuit since switching from 15s in 2014.
A rare combination of pace and power, Vakatawa's step and fend has become one of the most fearsome sights in the shorter format of the game and if he can transfer that threat into 15s, there is no question he will become France's most dangerous weapon out wide.
While his Sevens exploits were enough to convince Novès to give him a shot, there will be question marks over how ready he will be to play 15s, having made his last appearance for former club Racing 92 back in December 2013.
