France skipper Antonie Dupont cleared to resume training ahead of quarter-final against South Africa

France captain Antonie Dupont has been cleared to resume training ahead of their much awaited Rugby World Cup quarter-final against South Africa.

Dupont has been sidelined since sustaining a cheekbone fracture during the opening round game against Namibia on 21st September and has underwent a surgery since then in Toulouse.

Nevertheless, the 26-year-old has made a remarkable recovery with doctors clearing him to begin training much to the delight of Fabien Galthie.

“Following his medical visit planned today with the surgeon who previously operated on him, Antoine Dupont obtained authorization to resume rugby training today,” a statement from the French rugby federation confirmed on Monday.

However, hooker Julien Marchand's availability is still under doubt after suffering a hamstring injury in the World Cup opener against New Zealand.

The Les Bleus finished at the top of Pool A with four wins from as many games.