Damian Penaud’s France return has been checked almost immediately, with a calf issue ruling the record-breaking wing out of the next two Nations Championship fixtures.
The French Rugby Federation confirmed on Monday that Penaud will miss Saturday’s Test against Australia in Brisbane and the July 18 meeting with Japan in Tokyo, according to RugbyPass. Fabien Galthie said after France’s 34-32 loss to New Zealand that Penaud had felt calf tightness and did not want to risk a tear.
France’s Back-Three Picture Tightens
The timing is awkward because Penaud had only just been restored to the touring group after missing France’s Six Nations title run. His recall had reopened France’s back-three debate, especially with Louis Bielle-Biarrey rested and several Toulouse names held back after the Top 14 final.
Penaud’s early score in Christchurch showed why Galthie wanted his finishing threat back in the side. Losing him now changes the texture of France’s tour: Australia will still have to handle Emmanuel Meafou’s expected forward impact, but the visitors’ edge threat is thinner.
RugbyPass reports that France have not yet named a replacement. Until they do, the practical question is whether Galthie keeps a specialist wing profile or reshapes the backline around Matthieu Jalibert, Antoine Hastoy and the remaining Bordeaux-Begles combinations.
