The French Rugby Federation have issued a fitness update ahead of the clash in Cardiff
France have been hit by a major injury setback ahead of Sunday’s Six Nations clash with Wales after centre Nicolas Depoortere was ruled out of the trip to Cardiff, with another French midfielder also facing a race to be fit.
The 23-year-old was one of the standout performers in Les Bleus’ emphatic 36-14 victory over Ireland in their championship opener, producing a dazzling attacking display in Paris. Such was his impact, he beat more defenders than any other player on the pitch.
However, the French Rugby Federation confirmed on Wednesday that Depoortere will miss the encounter at the Principality Stadium through injury.
Depoortere sat out training earlier this week after experiencing muscle soreness during a weights session.
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France attack coach Patrick Arlettaz initially played down concerns, saying “for the moment, there is nothing to worry about”, but the Bordeaux-Begles centre has now been withdrawn from the squad. The FFR did not specify the precise nature of the problem.
There is also a fitness concern over his midfield partner Yoram Moefana, who missed Tuesday’s session after picking up a knock to the knee against Ireland.
Moefana was replaced after 50 minutes in Paris, with Arlettaz confirming the injury was the reason for his withdrawal.
With Depoortere sidelined, France may turn to one of two younger options who trained in the centres this week. Pau’s uncapped 20-year-old Fabien Brau-Boirie lined up alongside 22-year-old Emilien Gailleton, who has 11 caps.
Arlettaz has spoken glowingly about Brau-Boirie, comparing him to former France great Yannick Jauzion.
“He has that kind of talent, a bit like Jauzion, to be understated and very effective, to make others around him play well and always run very clean lines,” he said.
Despite the injury blow, France travel to Cardiff full of confidence after brushing aside Ireland in their opening fixture.
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Wing Louis Bielle-Biarrey, who crossed in the win over the Irish, has already warned his team-mates not to underestimate Wales, even amid the uncertainty surrounding the future of the professional game in the country.
“We also have to win in Wales, which is never easy,” he said after the win over Andy Farrell’s side.
“We know they are a team with very resilient players. They know they may have lost a franchise, and they’ll be determined to overperform.
“Every player will want to show their best to secure a contract, knowing their club is at risk of folding. It’s unfortunate for them, but it can also motivate them to perform even better.
“We need to stay really vigilant, prepare well, and we hope it will work out.”
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His comments were made before Wales’ heavy opening-round defeat by England, but suggest that France still come to Cardiff with a respect for the challenge that awaits them.