Antoine Dupont to return as Toulouse captain after eight months out

France captain Antoine Dupont is poised to return for Toulouse after an eight-month lay-off due to a serious knee injury. He is listed on the bench for the Top 14 clash with Racing 92 at Stade Ernest Wallon, as Toulouse chase form ahead of European duty.

Dupont, 29, has been sidelined since March after tearing the anterior cruciate ligament in his knee during France's Six Nations win over Ireland in Dublin.

The 2021 World Rugby Player of the Year has been named among the replacements as Toulouse host Racing 92 at Stade Ernest Wallon.

“From the moment he returned to training, he looked sharp again,” Toulouse assistant coach Jean Bouilhou told reporters. “He is an exceptional player at the highest level, and his leadership steers our game plan. I expect him to bounce back quickly to his best.”

Dupont has won two Six Nations titles with France and helped the Sevens team win Olympic gold at the Paris Games. At club level, he has five Top 14 titles and two European Champions Cups, and he recently extended his contract through 2031.

“I can’t predict the exact outcome of the match or future games, but in training he hasn’t shown any drop in quality compared with last year. We’re reassured by his current form,” Bouilhou added.

Dupont’s comeback comes ahead of Toulouse’s Champions Cup defence, which begins on 7 December against the Sharks.

In the meantime, Toulouse will be without back Juan Cruz Mallia for the rest of the season after a knee injury sustained in last week’s autumn Test at Twickenham following a late tackle by England’s Tom Curry.

“Juanchi is a big loss for the squad,” Bouilhou said. “He brings energy and lifts his teammates.”

With seven wins from ten Top 14 games, Toulouse sit top of the table as they chase a 25th domestic title this season.

Expert opinion: Rugby analysts say Dupont’s return could sharpen Toulouse’s attack and strengthen leadership as they balance league duties with a demanding European schedule.

Summary: Dupont’s comeback provides a significant boost for Toulouse ahead of a packed slate of matches. The club remains well-placed at the top of the Top 14 and is primed for a European challenge, even as Mallia's absence is felt. His return signals renewed confidence in Toulouse’s ability to compete on multiple fronts.

Key takeaway: Antoine Dupont's return could swing Toulouse's fortunes as they defend their domestic crown and mount a European campaign. BBC Sport