Injury Raises Concerns Over Maxime Lucu's Availability for Six Nations

Maxime Lucu, the French international scrum-half from Bordeaux-Bègles, has suffered a right knee sprain, putting his participation in the upcoming Six Nations tournament, which begins on February 5, in doubt. The injury will sideline him for approximately four to six weeks, according to UBB manager Yannick Bru, who indicated that Lucu could return sooner with good recovery but might need longer if complications arise. This development is particularly troubling as it follows Lucu's earlier absence this season due to a ruptured thumb tendon and coincides with the return of Antoine Dupont, the primary scrum-half for the XV de France.

Lucu, with 30 caps for France, had played fully in a recent match against Racing 92 without apparent issues before the injury surfaced, surprising the coaching staff. His unavailability will affect both France's national squad and Bordeaux-Bègles, which now relies heavily on Martin Page-Relo as their only specialist scrum-half after the injury of another young player, Valentin Hutteau. The French team faces a demanding Six Nations schedule with matches against Ireland, Wales, Italy, Scotland, and England.

Additionally, Christopher Tolofua, who last played for France in 2017, has expressed ambitions to return to the national team. The Montpellier hooker, versatile in his playing positions, emphasized that strong club performance is essential for national selection. His desire to return highlights the ongoing competition for places amid the injury struggles within the French squad.