Romain Rouillard (with Martin Lange) / Photo credit: MATTHIEU MIRVILLE / DPPI VIA AFP 18:01 p.m., October 10, 2023

During the training of the day of the XV of France in Rueil-Malmaison, Antoine Dupont, hit in the face against Namibia (96-0) but authorized by his surgeon to resume the competition, wore the number 9 of starter. Les Bleus' playmaker could therefore be in the starting line-up against South Africa on Sunday in the quarter-finals.

He was expected to return for the quarter-final against South Africa. According to the latest indicators, the number 9 of the XV of France, Antoine Dupont, injured against Namibia three weeks ago, could well be lined up from the start Sunday against the reigning world champions. During today's training session in Rueil-Malmaison, the Toulouse player wore the number 9 starter.

Merchant still on the flank

Hit in the face after a clash with Namibian captain Johan Deysel, Antoine Dupont had to undergo surgery for a maxillozygomatic fracture before his surgeon cleared him to return to team training on Monday. While there was talk of him playing with a helmet on Sunday night, the captain of Les Bleus did not wear one on Tuesday, at the start of training.

>>

READ ALSO – Rugby World Cup: South Africa, a strong opponent for the XV of France

On the other hand, hooker Julien Marchand, injured against New Zealand in the opening game (27-13), remains unavailable and should be replaced by Peato Mauvaka, who has been excellent since the beginning of the tournament. Also of note is the probable start of the young Louis Bielle-Biarrey (20 years old), on the wing, at the expense of Gabien Villière.

The probable composition of the XV of France against South Africa: Ramos; Penaud, Fickou, Danty, Bielle-Biarrey; Jalibert, Dupont; Ollivon, Alldritt, Jelonch; Flament, Woki; Atonio, Mauvaka, Baille