France defence coach Shaun Edwards to miss second Test against Japan

The French Rugby Federation has confirmed that defence coach Shaun Edwards will miss the second Test against Japan to be played on Saturday.

Edwards along with attack coach Laurent Labit, as well as backs Max Spring and Aymeric Luc were prevented from flying to Japan with France after testing positive for Covid-19.

Even though, the 55-year-old has tested negative in the recent round of testing, the FFR revealed that he will not be joining the squad ahead of the final game at Tokyo Stadium as he is yet to make a complete recovery.

“Despite his negative test this morning, Shaun is not fully recovered from his 12 days of Covid,” an FFR official said.

“After discussions with him, we thought it more reasonable that he does not travel to join us, and that he continues his work remotely.”

France kick-started their two-game series against Japan with a 42-23 win in the opening game riding on a double from Damian Penaud while Matthis Lebel, Yoram Moefana and Pierre Bourgarit also scored tries.