Clovis Le Bail, 29-year-old scrum-half, has chosen to leave the Racing 92 to join the Rugby Club Toulonnais. In search of playing time and a new lease of life, he signed up for three seasons with the Var club. A transfer which could well shake up the hierarchy of scrum halves in Toulon.
A discreet end to the Racing 92 adventure
Despite a promising start, Clovis Le Bail never managed to win at Racing 92. With only 12 apparitions this season, including three starts, he was often relegated to the bench behind Nolann Le Garrec.
However, the latter's announced departure to La Rochelle at the end of the season could have opened up opportunities for him. But the club's choice to recruit Leo Carbonneaua promising young scrum half, pushed Le Bail to turn to a new challenge.
An arrival that shakes up Toulon’s plans
Clovis Le Bail's commitment to Toulon has not gone unnoticed, especially as the club already has three scrum-halves under contract: Baptiste Serin, Ben White et Jules Danlot. If Serin, essential, remains the natural leader of the position, the arrival of Le Bail could redistribute the cards for the other two.
Jules Danglot, often lacking playing time, could consider leaving. As for Ben White, regularly criticized and non-JIFF, his place could be called into question, even if his contract runs until 2026.
-A bet for Toulon and Le Bail
For Toulon, recruiting Le Bail is an interesting bet. With its status as JIFF and his experience in Top 14, he brings a reliable option and a certain versatility. However, he will have to quickly convince in an environment where expectations are still very high. For Le Bail, it is a real opportunity to relaunch a career which seemed to stagnate in Paris.
Delicate management of the scrum-half position
With now four high-level players in the same position, Toulon will have to make choices. Competition could push some to leave, especially as the club is also looking to strengthen itself in other positions, particularly in the center. This recruitment shows that Toulon is looking for depth and solutions, but it could also open the door to moves in the coming weeks.
I grew up in a family where rugby was at all times. I was at the edge of the pitch when Castres beat Pau and joined the elite, I was in the Stade Pierre Antoine facing Gary Whetton when he did his Haka to celebrate the 1993 Brennus and I was always rocked legends of this sport. Now, it is with XV Ovalie that I intend to extend the adventure. #TeamCO
