Twitter users poke fun at Bastareaud's rumoured move

Ahead of France centre Mathieu Bastareaud’s potential loan move to the United States after the World Cup, one question has been asked by many fans.

Toulon President Mourad Boudjellal met with Rugby Union New York to discuss a six-month stint for Bastareaud in Major League Rugby after the showcase in Japan, and many have questioned how the robust centre will get on with the portion sizes in the States.

The 30-year-old had been rumoured to be making a move to Super Rugby’s Sharks after the World Cup, but some fans feel the lure of the USA’s cuisine may have been enough to entice the France international.

The USA is renowned for being slightly more liberal with its portion sizes and fast food, and weighing in at almost 19 stone, Bastareaud’s physique is perhaps not in keeping with a modern rugby player’s, let alone a back’s. Some are anticipating what shape the centre may be upon his return.

On a more serious note, some think that this unprecedented move is a good thing for the player. Similar to southern hemisphere players making a move to Japan, the rugby played there may be less taxing than the Top 14 and Six Nations. Immediately after a gruelling World Cup, this may be just what the player needs to avoid burnout and fatigue. In the long run, it may be more beneficial for the longevity of Bastareaud’s career. Then again that is provided he keeps his diet in check.

You may also like: RugbyPass takes a look behind the scenes at the Leicester Tigers' player academy.