France rugby union head coach Fabien Galthié on Monday started reshaping his France squad for Saturday’s Six Nations title decider against Scotland amid anger over the injury to talismanic skipper Antoine Dupont during Saturday’s clash against Ireland and satisafaction at his team’s response to Dupont’s departure.
France were leading 5-0 when Dupont was injured in the 29th minute following a ruck on the field at the Aviva Stadium in Dublin.
Maxime Lucu replaced Dupont and the 32-year-old proceeded to orchestrate a 42-27 victory over the defending champions to take France into top place in the 2025 championships.
They will secure their first title since 2022 with a win over Scotland at the Stade de France on Saturday night.
Dupont, the 2021 world player of the year, will miss the Test after he confirmed on social media the cruciate ligaments in his right knee had been torn.
“It’s the start of a new challenge, I’ll see you in a few months on the pitch,” said the 28-year-old
Dupont accompanied his post with a flexed bicep emoji, adding: “The heart hurts even more than the knee when you have to leave your mates before the last hurdle.”
Referring to Saturday’s game in Ireland and the impending clash against Scotland, he added: “I am proud of what we accomplished and am with you with all my strength, you will do it.”
Anger
Despite the defeat, Ireland can retain the title if they beat Italy and Scotland win or draw in Paris. England can also claim the crown.
Read more on RFI English
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