France last night suffered a major injury blow when fly half Christophe Lamaison was ruled out of Saturday's Six Nations Championship showdown with England. Lamaison, who kicked 21 points when France demolished Wales in Cardiff nine days ago, has a sprained knee ligament. Experienced Bourgoin centre Stephane Glas has been called into the squad by French coach Bernard Laporte, but Toulouse fly-half Alain Penaud is favourite for Lamaison's number 10 jersey.
Brive back Lamaison, architect of the unforgettable World Cup semi-final victory over New Zealand last October, was hurt during a French Championship match against Dax yesterday. He underwent further checks today before the decision was made to withdraw him. Wing Christophe Dominici (groin), scrum-half Fabien Galthie (leg) and replacement three-quarter David Venditti (twisted ankle) are all receiving treatment, but expect to recover well in time for Saturday's Stade de France encounter.
