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Zach Mercer one of two Englishmen in Top 14 team of the week
By Josh Raisey
After scoring a try in Toulon’s Top 14 first-round victory over Montpellier, Zach Mercer’s barnstorming return to France has continued by making Midi Olympique’s team of the week.
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The former England No.8 started in Toulon’s 16-12 victory over Castres at the Stade Mayol on Saturday to make it two from two in the opening league rounds.
What has made Mercer’s start to the season all the more impressive is the fact that, prior to his summer transfer, he had not featured at all for Gloucester in 2025 due to a knee injury which required surgery. After eight months out, the 28-year-old has hit the ground running.
Another former Gallagher PREM star, Pau’s Joe Simmonds, has joined Mercer in the XV.
Simmonds has entered his third season with Pau, who have earned back-to-back victories over Stade Francais and Castres this season.
Simmonds’ brother, former England No.8 Sam, has also enjoyed a great start to life with Lyon after his move from Montpellier over the summer. Lyon currently sit at the top of the league after two rounds, with Sam Simmonds starting at No.8 in both rounds.
Sam Simmonds’ team-mate Jiuta Wainiqolo has made the team of the week following his viral solo effort from 70 metres out against Montauban.
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Mercer’s Toulon host La Rochelle this weekend, while Joe Simmonds’ Pau will take on ASM Clermont Auvergne at the Stade Marcel Michelin.