Antoine Dupont injury update: Will France captain take further part in Rugby World Cup 2023?

France's record 96-0 win over Namibia in the Rugby World Cup 2023 was overshadowed by the massive blow they received when their captain and poster boy Antoine Dupont fractured his cheekbone. Confirming the injury, the French Rugby Federation said that Dupont remains with the squad and will see a specialist. It said in a statement that Antoine Dupont suffered a maxillo-zygomatic fracture. It added that a specialist surgical opinion had been requested to determine the exact length of his unavailability.

Severe blow to France's World Cup chances

Experts say that it may be a severe blow to France's chances of winning the World Cup for the first time. Dupont was named World Player of the Year, besides being voted Six Nations Player of the Tournament in 2022 and 2023. He also remains unbeaten in 14 home Tests as France captain.

Lucu may replace Dupont

With Dupont's injury, France are left with two fit scrum halves in Lyon's Baptiste Couilloud and Bordeaux Begles' Maxime Lucu. Lucu is the likely replacement as he replaced the France captain during their opening victory over New Zealand.

Will Dupont be back?

Dupont can still rescue his team. The quarter-finals will be held in the weekend of October 14-15 and France may make it without Dupont. A semi-final will take place in five weeks if France get there.

Red card to Namibia captain

Dupont was among 12 players who were rested for the second group win over Uruguay. He was restored to the team that played against Namibia in Marseille.

Dupont helped the team into a 54-0 lead before his collision with Namibia captain Deysel, who was initially shown a yellow card. It was upgraded to a red card after a review by the television match official.

FAQs:

Q1. Will Dupont be back in the Rugby World Cup?
A1. French Rugby Federation said that Dupont remains with the squad and will see a specialist. A semifinal will be played in four-five week's time and Dupont may recover by that time. He can join his team if it reaches that stage without him.

Q2. Who may replace Dupont in the team?
A2. Maxime Lucu is the likely replacement for Dupont. Earlier, he replaced the France captain during their opening victory over New Zealand.