Antonie Dupont set to miss France’s November Tests

France captain Antoine Dupont is likely to miss next month’s clash against South Africa in Paris, with medical staff confirming he will not be rushed back into action.

The star scrumhalf, who has been sidelined since rupturing his anterior cruciate ligament during France’s Six Nations victory over Ireland in March, has only just returned to light training with Toulouse.

He joined teammates for warm-ups earlier this week before continuing his rehabilitation separately.

The 2021 World Rugby Player of the Year and reigning World Rugby Sevens Player of the Year has been progressing steadily, but his comeback is not expected before December.

That timeline rules him out of France’s end-of-year fixtures against the Springboks, Fiji and Australia.

Dupont’s absence will be a significant blow for Les Bleus, who rely heavily on his vision, playmaking and leadership. Since making his debut in 2017, he has become central to France’s style of play and is widely regarded as one of the best players in the world.

His eventual return will be vital for both Toulouse and the national side heading into the Six Nations.