Introduction
According to forwards coach William Servat, there is “no doubt” that France captain Antoine Dupont might recover in time to participate in a Rugby World Cup quarterfinal. During the 96-0 victory over Namibia on Thursday, Dupont shattered his cheekbone. If France wins Pool A, they will play their quarterfinal nine days after their next match against Italy on October 6. Scrum-half After breaking his cheekbone in Thursday’s victory over Namibia, Dupont underwent surgery. This left the home team, Les Bleus, in position to advance to the knockout rounds, which take place on the weekend of October 14–15.
On October 7, France will play Italy, and a win will guarantee first place in Pool A and a matchup with the likely World Cup champions South Africa in the round of 16.
Captain’s Surgery
A day after suffering his facial injury, Dupont underwent surgery, and Servat said that he anticipates the Toulouse scrum-half, 26, to resume training this weekend. He’s resting now, the operation went well, said Servat. On Sunday, he will resume training. He will have time to come back during that time as Friday and Saturday are our off days. “I am certain he will be able to play in the quarterfinal,” I said.
After winning their first three pool games, France will be assured a quarterfinal position if they overcome Italy in Lyon. However, a fourth victory will advance the hosts as Pool A victors.
Coach’s Verdict
Olivier Magne, a former back-rower for France, issued a caution on Saturday against bringing Dupont back too soon. Servat remarked, “I suppose, very naturally, that he will return in his own way. He continued, “We (the coaching staff) cannot make any decisions prior to consulting with him and receiving approval from the medical personnel.
He’s recuperating after a successful operation. On Sunday, he will return to training, Servat told the media. The former France hooker continued, “I have no doubt about his ability to play the quarterfinal.”
Deysel suspended
Deysel’s “act of foul play” during the game in Marseille, according to the disciplinary committee, was “at the top end of the scale of seriousness of offending.” However, due to mitigating circumstances like the player’s apology to Dupont and his prior disciplinary history, a potential 12-game suspension was lowered by 50%.
If Deysel participates in the World Rugby coaching initiative on tackling, as he has stated he plans to, the suspension will be lifted for one more game. The centre made the following statement following the game on Thursday: “I would want to convey my best wishes to Antoine. I obviously didn’t mean any harm. I am aware of the regulations, therefore I recognised my error right away. After the game, I spoke with [France coach] Fabien Galthie and conveyed Antoine my best wishes and my apologies both directly and through the France team doctor.