Talismanic French Rugby captain Antoine Dupont has been cleared medically to face South Africa in the upcoming Rugby World Cup quarterfinal.
Just a fortnight removed from breaking his cheekbone during France’s 96 – 0 demolition of Namibia Dupont’s miraculous return significantly boosts the World Cup hosts
French Rugby Federation Announcement On Dupont
“Following his medical visit planned today (Monday) with the surgeon who previously operated on him, Antoine Dupont obtained authorization to resume rugby training today,” explained the FFR.
Speaking about Dupont’s recovery, French support coach Karim Ghezal said, “His physical qualities are impressive,
“He’s worked hard physically, done a lot of running, a lot of speed work. Those are his strong points. The next step is the appointment with his surgeon, who will decide.
“Physically, he hasn’t lost much in the week he’s been off; quite the opposite, in fact. Physically, he’s in great shape.” Ghezal concluded.
Returning Springbok Stars
The Springboks enter the match with two crucial stars who are also back from injury in flyhalf Handre Pollard and centre Lukhanyo Am.
One area of concern for South Africa is depth at the Hooker position, having replaced the injured Malcolm Marx with Pollard.
Currently, the position group consists of first-choice Bongi Mbonambi and utility forwards Deon Fourie and Marco van Staden.
France and South Africa will meet at the Stade de France on Sunday evening at 21.00 local time.
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