France international Paul Willemse to miss World Cup with injury

France will lose the services of lock Paul Willemse for the World Cup scheduled in Japan later this year due to injury.

The 26-year-old was among the six reserve players named by head coach Jacques Brunel for the showpiece event.

The French Rugby Federation in a statement said a replacement for Willemse will be announced in due course with the 6ft 7in lock returning back to his club Montpellier for rehabilitation.

Willemse has played five Tests for France - all of it coming during this year's Six Nations tournament.

France are positioned in Pool C in the Rugby World Cup and will kick-start their campaign with a clash against Argentina at Tokyo Stadium on 21st September.