France’s preparations for Saturday’s Test match against South Africa in Marseille suffered a further blow on Monday when centre Tony Marsh was rule out with a groin injury.
The 30-year New Zealand born Montferrand player has been first choice at centre since being called in to the squad replace the injured Xavier Garbajosa in last year’s game against South Africa.
Ironically, it is Toulouse utility back Garbajosa who benefits this time round as he earned a recall to the squad to replace Marsh. He won the last of his 24 caps against Wales in Cardiff on Febuary 16.
Marsh was the second player forced out of the French squad in as many days after full-back Clement Poitrenaud withdrew on Sunday to be replaced by former star playmaker Thomas Castaignede.
Coach Bernard Laporte will announce his team for the first of the autumn Tests on Tuesday. – Sapa-AFP