response in June for Emmanuel Meafou, Anthony Jelonch “in advance”, announces Fabien Galthié

The coach of the XV of France, Fabien Galthié, explained on Tuesday 16 May that he awaited a response in June from World Rugby on the suitability of the powerful second row Emmanuel Meafou, of Australian nationality. His Toulouse teammate Anthony Jelonch, who was badly injured in the knee, is according to him “in advance” in his rehabilitation.

“We were promised an answer in mid-June to find out if we can capture Emmanuel Meafou and make him selectable on preparation”Galthié explained at a press conference in Montgesty (Lot), his native village, less than four months before the World Cup in France (September 8-October 28). “A procedure has been initiated with World Rugby. The dossier is being studied”he precised.

Arrived in late 2018 in Toulouse, the Australian-born giant (2.03m, 145kg), who would like to play for France, does not currently meet the eligibility criteria of world rugby’s governing body (five years residency in the country). However, the Italian staff had summoned him to Marcoussis before the last match of the Six Nations Tournament against Wales in March so that he could familiarize himself with the Blues’ methods and environment.

“Everything is very well” for Jelonch

His Stade Toulouse team-mate Anthony Jelonch, who underwent surgery in early March after tearing anterior cruciate ligament in his left knee against Scotland, has since begun a race against time to be rehabilitated in time for the Cup of the world.

“He is following a rehabilitation program, which is timely. Everything is going very well”reassured Galthié, who had made the Gers back row his captain during the Blues’ tour of Australia in the summer of 2021. “Being exceptional players, they have exceptional recovery ability and are already ahead”He added. “Surgeon Doesn’t Understand What’s Going On With Anthony Jelonch”.