Every season, and it is no longer a surprise, Stade Toulousain have to absorb the absences of numerous internationals kept with France. Except that this season, the reigning French champions also have to cope with a flood of injuries in various positions.

At prop first of all, Toulouse will be without loosehead Benjamin Bertrand and tighthead Dorian Aldegheri, called up to prepare for the November tour. Same story at hooker, with the selections of Julien Marchand and Guillaume Cramont.

Portat comes back too

Add to that the injuries to Georges-Henri Colombe – hurt against Toulon -, Cyril Baille, Joël Merkler, Paul Mallez and Peato Mauvaka. Faced with the emergency, and as the agreement had been drawn up that way, the red and black club have recalled Malachi Hawkes, on loan at Provence Rugby. The Australian has an interesting profile since he can play both prop and hooker. Ugo Mola and his staff will also be able to count on the versatility of David Ainu’u, able to play on either side of the scrum.

That is not all. Toulouse have also recalled their lock Raphaël Portat (22), likewise on loan at Provence Rugby this season. The young player comes in to fill the numbers left by Emmanuel Meafou and Thibaud Flament (France) as well as Joshua Brennan, injured.