France-England: Anthony Jelonch withdraws from the Crunch, Temo Matiu tipped to replace

His Six Nations Tournament is over. Starting in all matches of the French XV campaign so far, Anthony Jelonch will not participate in the Crunch against England, this Saturday March 14 (9 p.m.). Information revealed by L’Équipe, which we are able to confirm.

The cause: hamstring discomfort felt in training by the 29-year-old third row, who gave up his place during the match last Saturday at Murrayfield, during the Blues’ defeat against Scotland (50-40).

Replaced in the 43rd minute by Montpellier Lenni Nouchi, Jelonch did not respond favorably to the concussion protocol. If the Toulouse player was able to train with his partners at the start of the week, he will not be able to resume competition this weekend at the Stade de France.

Baptism of fire for Temo Matiu?

A problematic package for Fabien Galthié, already deprived of Oscar Jegou, suspended for four weeks after being guilty of a slip in Scotland, in the third line position. Still according to L’Équipe, the French coach could call on Temo Matiu to replace one of his most experienced executives. The 24-year-old from Bordeaux, who should be lined up alongside François Cros and Charles Ollivon, would thus experience his first selection in a heated context, since the Blues are under pressure to defend their title.

Before the last day, the Tricolores have as many points as Scotland (16) and two fewer than Ireland (14), who will face each other earlier in the day. In the middle of the puzzle to compose his team, between injuries, suspension and poor performance, Fabien Galthié will reveal the identity of the XV expected to face England this Thursday around 11 a.m.