XV of France. Atonio and Wardi uncertain for the list of the 6 Nations Tournament: who to replace them

Both hit against Leinster in the 3^e Champions Cup day, Reda Wardi and Uini Atonio are doubtful while the staff of the XV of France will communicate on Wednesday afternoon the first list of 42 players summoned for the 6 Nations Tournament. Here are the existing options for replacing the two pillars.

List of the XV of France: who to replace Atonio and Wardi uncertain

The calendar is thus made, its rhythm and its demands being what they are: the 6 Nations Tournament always arrives after major deadlines in the club season. At the same time, are there really quieter periods? Not really !

It was therefore undoubtedly with a little anxiety that Fabien Galthié and his staff watched the matches of the 3^e day of the Champions Cup and Challenge Cup this weekend, notably seeing Reda Wardi and Uini Atonio leave the field before half-time during Rochelais' defeat against Leinster.

The two pillars, respectively affected in the ribs and one knee, are therefore uncertain before the release of the first list of 42 players who will be summoned to Marcoussis to prepare for the Tournament.

Yawn back, Big in time?

In terms of good news on the left of the Blues scrum, boss Cyril Baille was finally able to return to the field after the serious injury suffered in the Top 14 semi-final last June. Rather in the game in South Africa against the Sharks, we imagine that he will make his return with the XV of France quickly.

To accompany him, Jean-Baptiste Gros, author of a very good start to the season before being injured against Argentina in November, must at all costs play again this weekend to hope to apply. At the risk of being overtaken for example by Giorgi Beria, Dany Priso or Sébastien Taofifenua who had participated in three matches of the Tournament in 2024.

The uncertainty is just as great on the right. In addition to Uini Atonio's problems, Tevita Tatafu has also not yet put on his boots since his early exit against the All Blacks in November. George-Henri Colombe will probably be there and could therefore be accompanied by Régis Montagne or Dorian Aldegheri to his advantage in South Africa.

It should be noted that Demba Bamba and Sipili Falatea are still injured and that their returns to the club have not yet been discussed. Thomas Laclayat seems far from the hit for the moment.

It remains to be seen which of these players will ultimately be fit or indeed withdrawn for the start of the Tournament. Hoping that there will be no more breakages over the next two weeks….

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