Fresh doubt over Scotland's Six Nations game in Paris

France suspend training again after positive Covid-19 test

Author: Rob WallerPublished 25th Feb 2021

Scotland's Guinness Six Nations game in Paris on Sunday has been put in doubt again following another positive Covid-19 test among the French playing squad.

The Stade de France showdown had already been thrown into major doubt following the Covid-19 outbreak among Les Bleus players and management, but tournament bosses gave the go-ahead to the match in Paris on Wednesday.

In a statement, the French Rugby Federation said: "Following the RT-PCR tests carried out this Wednesday, February 24 in the evening, and the appearance of a positive case within the squad of players, the FFR medical committee met this morning and decided to suspend training this day.

"The entire group is in isolation in accordance with health protocol.

"The FFR is in close contact with the Six Nations committee.''

10 players in quarantine

France's coronavirus outbreak forced 10 of their top stars into quarantine, including scrum-half and 2020 player of the championship Antoine Dupont and captain Charles Ollivon.

Les Bleus stand top the Six Nations table after two rounds following a comprehensive win against Italy and a narrow victory over Ireland, both away from home.

This weekend's encounter was placed under threat when flanker Ollivon, prop Cyril Baille, hooker Peato Mauvaka, lock Romain Taofifenua and full-back Brice Dulin became the latest members of Fabien Galthie's squad to test positive.

Nine of the 23-man squad that sent Ireland spinning to a 15-13 defeat 11 days ago were since found to have contracted the virus.

In addition to positive tests produced by players, head coach Galthie is among members of France's management team in self-isolation.

Hear all the latest news from across the North of Scotland on MFR. Listen on FM, via our Rayo app, DAB, or smart speaker.