27th Feb 2015 | Six Nations
Remi Zeroes In
First start after two impressive cameos. Averages a tournament leading five defenders beaten per 80 min.
Philippe Saint-André has made some questionable decisions in the first two 6 Nations matches but he’s finally made the right call at centre.
The French coach has gone for brains over brawn with Remi Lamerat replacing Mathieu Bastareaud.
Remi Lamerat v Mathieu Bastareaud
figures adjusted to 80 min
Lamerat has only had 64 minutes of game time but if you annualise his figures (per 80min) his performances stand up to scrutiny. He beats more defenders (5.0) and manages more metres per carry than Bastareaud.
The Castres centre is an elusive runner and offers the French team more guile as opposed to Bastareaud trying to smash his way through well-drilled defences.
Lamerat was awarded the title ‘Reveletation of the Season’ in last year’s Top 14 and although he has only scored once in the league this season, he is playing in a struggling Castres team.
If his two cameo appearances are a fair representation, he could do some damage against Wales. The bookmakers haven’t adjusted their prices yet and he is a cracking bet at 22/1 (Paddy Power) to score the first try of the game.
First Tryscorer Cashback - Paddy Power
If your losing first tryscorer scores a try anytime, Paddy Power will refund your stake as a free bet.
Odds correct at time of publishing: 07:01 27th Feb, 2015 but subject to change