But the 33-year-old New Zealander, the undeniable Béarnais player of the season, will not be able to complete his high-flying exercise on the pitch. Hit in the neck, he had to give up the last day against Perpignan (Saturday at 9:05 p.m.), which was nevertheless decisive in obtaining one of the first 8 places, synonymous with a major European Cup for Pau.
Beyond that, the two Whitelock brothers will not be able to enjoy one last joint dance at the Hamlet, while Sam was allowed to play again following his concussion. This weekend, the Vert et Blanc will also have to do without Eliott Roudil, the versatile three-quarter back who has returned strong after 13 months of absence. Since the 19th day, the 27-year-old former Rochelais was on all the match sheets. Victim of a bruised foot, he will not be lying on the last one.
The editorial team advises you
The editorial team advises you
The editorial team advises you
Metz is not recovered
In the 2nd line, despite the return of Sam Whitelock, the Pau staff will still have a limited choice. Released after spraining his right ankle, Lekima Tagitagivalu is uncertain but hopeful. As for Fabrice Metz, who is out of action due to a thigh injury, he will not be able to say goodbye to the Hameau in match gear.
The 33-year-old Alsatian, who will join Vannes this summer, will remain stuck at 168 matches with the Section Paloise. After 8 seasons of defending the club’s colors, there is no doubt that the ovation will live up to the loyalty of “Fabulous Fab”.
In the same position, Hugo Auradou (sprained ankle), Brent Liufau (fracture, dislocation of the ankle) and Mickaël Capelli (cruciate ligament) are still unavailable. Flop of this season, the Argentinian international left pillar Facundo Gigena hurt his back and joined the infirmary, where Rémi Seneca (cruciate ligament), Aminiasi Tuimaba (forearm fracture), Clément Laporte (ruptured Achilles tendon ) and Clément Mondinat (sprained ankle) are still recovering.
Possibly hoped for for this final championship lift, center-winger Samuel Ezeala (foot sprain), on departure at Stade Français, will be too short for a final outing in Béarn.
