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France lose Paul Willemse on eve of Rugby World Cup
By Ian Cameron
France have suffered yet another major blow with the union confirming that they have replaced outstanding second row Paul Willemse on the eve of the Rugby World Cup.
It's a bitter blow for head coach Fabien Galthie, who has already lost flyhalf Romain Ntamack, prop Cyril Baille and centre Jonathan Danty.
Galthie has called up Bastien Chalureau to replace Willemse, who could still take part in the tournament as a replacement should he recover from his injury whilst injury befalls one of his teammates. The 6'7, 135kg forward has suffered a tear to the quadriceps of the right thigh.
He has been added to the official reserves list for the tournament.
France kick off proceedings next Friday with a crunch game against the All Blacks at the Stade de France in Paris.
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To be honest, that's excuses. SA players involved all over 12 months a year. That is not the way to excuse what's happening. There is no replacement for actual fitness, which the English need. In all their games, it was clear that they are not fit enough for 80 min playing. You have to put in the work to get fit. Numbers won't change that. They need the right conditioning and fitness coaches. They rely on a defensive system that requires ultimate fitness. Don't use strategies that counters your abilities. Stop seeking excuses. Also it's a mental thing. They have to break through that mental block. Plenty of rumours around that players and coaches aren't happy with Borthwick. That could just be rumour spreading too, however, where there is smoke, there is usually fire
Go to commentsWhy would he be?😅
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