Rugby World Cup: Antoine Dupont to return to France training ahead of quarter-final against South Africa

Antoine Dupont could be in line to return for France in their Rugby World Cup quarter-final against South Africa.

There were fears that Dupont could miss the remainder of the tournament due to an injury suffered in the pool stage.

However, the scrum-half has now returned to full training and looks set to face the Springboks on Sunday, October 15.

A statement from the French Rugby Federation read: “Following his medical visit today with the surgeon who operated on him, Antoine Dupont obtained authorisation to resume rugby training today.”

The 26-year-old underwent surgery on a fractured cheekbone after colliding with Namibia captain Johan Deysel during a 96-0 win for France on September 21.

Deyel was subsequently sent off and issued an apology after the game, saying: “I would like to extend my best wishes to Antoine Dupont. Clearly, I meant no harm.

“Everything happened very quickly and I couldn’t get my head out of the way quick enough, resulting in a head clash. I know the rules and immediately knew that I was at fault.

“I spoke with Fabien Galthie [France's head coach] immediately after the match and sent my best wishes and apologies to Antoine, both personally and via the France team doctor.

“He is a great player and person, and I wish him a speedy recovery.”

Meanwhile, France attack coach Laurent Labit was optimistic that Dupont would return in time.

Speaking after the win over Namibia, Labit said: “Antoine stays with us, everyone will be together.

"We will do as we have always done with short-term injuries in hoping that the opinion of the surgeon is positive for Antoine and us.

"The specialist will give the verdict and Antoine will make the decision. We will respect that. We can't think too far ahead."

Dupont will now wear a metal plate in his cheekbone after only missing the comfortable 60-7 victory over Italy on October 6.

Fabien Galthie’s side have already had to play their home World Cup without fly-half Romain Ntamack due to injury, so Dupont’s return will serve as a huge boost in their quest to win the Webb Ellis Trophy.

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