Heading into the Top 14, will the RCT have to say goodbye to its 1st place in the Champions Cup?

First, an observation: with 3 victories (including 1 improved by Harlequins) in the Champions Cup, the RCT is already qualified for the European final stages. A good thing, before traveling to Sale this weekend.

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The thing is that Toulon is also in the mix in the Top 14, currently in 3rd place in the “best championship in the world”. And that before the 2-week truce which will benefit everyone at the start of the 6 Nations Tournament, the Var club will host La Rochelle in Mayol. Date obviously checked in the calendar by Pierre Mignoni.

So, when it comes time to go to the suburbs of Manchester to challenge a team from Sale, will the RCT have to rest its strength? When we know the epidemic of injuries which has reduced the Var group in recent weeks, it is possible.

Because after losing Charles Ollivon, Baubigny, Tuicuvu and Fainga'anuku after the victory against Racing 92, the RCT saw Kyle Sinckler break his forearm last week against Harlequins. Just that.

So, while Beka Gigashvili is still in care, the team that goes to Sale will probably be reshuffled to avoid wearing out boys who are already very used. Thus, Midi Olympique informs that the very fit Baptiste Serin, David Ribbans and Dany Priso will be on the bench on Sunday. And could return sooner or later in the game, depending on how the match goes.

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While JB Gros will start from the start, after his injury with the French XV last November, or Rayan Rebbadj, very little used until now, will start at the back for the first time in his career , since Domon is placed on rest and Jaminet has not yet completed his suspension.

Enough to take it to England? This seems unlikely. But the young Toulonnais will want to show themselves, facing a Sale team that is not really impressive this season, despite a very dense pack.

In this sense, showing a good face (and bringing back 1 point which could be decisive to keep 1st place over Glasgow?) and ensuring victory the following weekend against La Rochelle would certainly be a fulfilled contract for the Toulonnais. Before a well-deserved break, for a team which remains on 8 victories in its last 9 matches.