France hit by injury concerns ahead of World Cup warm-ups

France’s preparations for the upcoming Rugby World Cup have hit a snag as flanker Francois Cros will be sidelined for their World Cup warm-up game against Scotland next month.

The 29-year-old suffered a groin injury during training in preparation for the match at Murrayfield on August 5. The injury has raised concerns, but France’s head of performance, Thibault Giroud, assured that it’s not a long-term issue, though Cros will be out of action for a few weeks.

Giroud addressed reporters, stating, “It’s a little strain in the groin. He’ll be out for a few weeks, it’s not something long-term but we have to treat it.”

The absence of Cros from the squad is a setback for France as they gear up to host the Rugby World Cup, which is set to kick off on September 8 in Paris with the hosts facing New Zealand in the opening game.

In addition to Cros, lock Paul Willemse was also absent from training on Thursday due to a long-term hamstring problem, causing some concern for Les Bleus ahead of their World Cup campaign.

France are scheduled to play Scotland again a week after their match at Murrayfield, this time at Saint Etienne. Subsequently, they will face Fiji in Nantes on August 19, followed by a match against Australia in Paris eight days later.

The World Cup challenge awaits France in Pool A, where they will not only face the formidable All Blacks but also go up against Uruguay, Namibia, and Italy.