Fourth in the Top 14 table, five points clear top of their Champions Cup pool, it is a good time for Racing 92 and their new full-back Simon Zebo who has been recognised for his recent showings by selection in Midol's Top 14 team of 2018.
Since moving to Paris Zebo has enjoyed an exceptional period of form, striking up a fruitful partnership with Finn Russell and Teddy Thomas. The 28-year-old was selected at full-back by the French media outlet in a team that also includes Australian Liam Gill and South African François Steyn.
The big news this week is that #Midol have released their Top 14 team of 2018.
Some big calls, Dupont at nine despite missing much of the year, Zebo in after joining in the summer, just two Castres players, no Radradra or Yato. pic.twitter.com/1FecGBAgI6— Paul Eddison (@pauleddison) December 28, 2018
🗞️ 4 Ciel et Blanc dans le XV de l'année du Midi-Olympique !
2⃣ Camille Chat
4⃣ Leone Nakarawa
1⃣1⃣ Juan Imhoff
1⃣5⃣ Simon Zebo
Bravo Messieurs ! #RacingFamily pic.twitter.com/c5lfV3COkl— Racing 92 (@racing92) December 28, 2018
It is a remarkable achievement for Zebo given he only departed Munster last summer and thus only had half the calendar year to impress.
There was also an acknowledgement of another former Munster man, with Donnacha Ryan cited as a contender unlucky to miss out in the final 15.
In the forwards Laurent Travers namechecks Fritz Lee, Vahaamahina, Marchand and Donnacha Ryan as other contenders.
Vadim Cobilas becomes the first Moldovan to be picked in this team.
The international team of the year will be named on Monday #Midol— Paul Eddison (@pauleddison) December 28, 2018
Racing are in action tomorrow, as they prepare to face Bordeaux Bègles in the Top 14.
