Charles Ollivon

Few back-rowers combine aerial set-piece work with genuine leadership quite like Charles Ollivon. Born on 11 May 1993, the France international is a tall, athletic blindside flanker whose game is built around lineout influence, intelligent ball-carrying and a relentless presence across the field. A long-serving figure at RC Toulon, Ollivon developed into one of the most respected forwards in the Top 14 before becoming a cornerstone of the national side. He captained France during a hugely successful period, leading the side to the 2022 Six Nations Grand Slam, and has earned more than fifty international caps. His height makes him a reliable target and disruptor at the lineout, while his work in the loose, both carrying into contact and competing in defence, underpins much of France's structure. Having battled back from a serious knee injury earlier in his career, Ollivon's resilience matches his physical attributes. Calm under pressure and trusted by team-mates, he remains a key organiser in the back row, valued as much for his composure and decision-making as for his obvious physical gifts. Whether wearing the captain's armband or operating within the pack, he continues to be central to the way France compete at the highest level.