And it is not over yet! To nobody’s great surprise, Geoffrey Palis looks set to finish his career at Castres. The wing and full-back, a model of consistency, extended his contract in the Tarn on Thursday. At 34 (he turns 35 in July), Palis will continue the adventure for another season.

Selected on eight occasions at this stage of the season, the France international (2 caps in 2018) is now part of the furniture at CO. Just as they did with glorious former servants such as Capo Ortega, Caballero, Forestier and Dumora, Castres are locking down their long-serving stalwarts.

Having arrived from Albi in 2013, the versatile back quickly established himself at Castres. “Physically, I feel good and, mentally, I am as motivated as ever. I did not want to have one year too many, but I could not picture myself ending my career this season“, explained the wing/full-back in the club’s statement.