France's Jonathan Danty set to miss World Cup opener against New Zealand

France have been dealt an injury blow ahead of the Rugby World Cup with centre Jonathan Danty set to miss the tournament opener against New Zealand on 8th September.

Danty, who was one of the try-scorer for France in their final warm-up fixture against Australia is reported to have sustained a hamstring injury that is certain to rule him out of the clash against the All Blacks.

The 30-year-old was a certainty to start for the Les Bleus forming midfield partnership with Gael Fickou and now is set to assess the extent of the damage. The duo also started for France in their 40-25 win over New Zealand in November last year.

France are already without fly-half Romain Ntamack for the entire tournament due to a knee injury while prop Cyril Bay will miss the encounter against Ian Foster.

France are grouped alongside New Zealand, Italy, Uruguay and Namibia in Group A.