Romain Ntamack is set to rejoin the French rugby team on February 10, following a long recovery period. He has been sidelined since December 28 due to a kidney injury sustained during a match against La Rochelle. Despite feeling ready to compete, he was not cleared to play in Toulouse’s recent match against Bayonne.
Ntamack’s Injury and Recovery Process
The injury involved a fissure of the renal capsule, which mandated a strict recovery protocol. Ntamack’s medical team imposed a 40-day contact restriction, which he has not yet completed. As of Saturday, he was on day 34, preventing his return to action.
Next Steps for Ntamack
Although he has shown promising signs during training, including non-contact drills with teammates, his participation in matches remains contingent on medical clearance. A thorough imaging assessment confirming full recovery is necessary before he can play competitively.
Conditions for Return
- Completion of 40 days without contact as advised by medical personnel.
- Successful imaging results to confirm recovery from the kidney injury.
Implications for the French Team
Ntamack’s impending return raises questions about the squad’s composition for upcoming matches, particularly against Wales. His performance could impact Matthieu Jalibert, who will start against Ireland. Jalibert must navigate the pressure of performing well to retain his position.
Upcoming Matches
- February 10: Ntamack joins the training group.
- February 15: Toulouse faces Paris in a key match.
The staff will likely evaluate both players’ contributions closely. If Ntamack successfully resumes play with Toulouse, he may have the opportunity to represent France shortly thereafter. However, there is no guarantee of his selection, as Jalibert’s performance will also weigh heavily on team decisions.
Conclusion
Romain Ntamack’s anticipated return is a developing story that could significantly affect the French rugby team. As the situation unfolds, both Ntamack and Jalibert will be key players to watch in the coming weeks.
