/ 23 June 2005

French prop battling back to fitness

Experienced French prop Sylvain Marconnet should be able to resume full training on Thursday ahead of Saturday’s second Test against South Africa.

The 28-year-old Stade Francais stalwart has been suffering from a right thigh injury picked up during the thrilling 30-30 draw with the Springboks in the first Test last Saturday.

Marconnet was able to take part in scrummaging practice on Wednesday morning, but was excused from a light training session in the afternoon.

Should Marconnet not be passed fit he is likely to be replaced by Olivier Milloud in the starting line-up while Denis Avril will move on to the bench.

Flyhalf Yann Delaigue, who is suffering from a shoulder injury he has had for over a month, was restricted once again to just jogging round the training ground.

A decision on whether Delaigue will stay or return home will be taken at the end of the week. The team then leave for a once-off Test in Australia. – Sapa-AFP