Toulouse's powerhouse No 8 Louis Picamoles will miss the first five matches of the Top 14 season because of illness, according to coach Guy Noves.
The 28-year-old France international has taken no part in training since his return from holidays on July 21 and has been written off until September 15, Noves said.
"He's ill and we decided to give him a month off," Noves said, without clarifying exactly what was wrong with the backrower.
Former All Black Luke McAlister (stomach) would also likely be ruled out of Toulouse's opener against Oyonnax on Saturday, Noves said, joining Thierry Dusautoir (thigh), Yohan Maestri (knee), Chiliboy Ralepelle (knee) and Schalk Ferreira (biceps) on the sidelines.
Source: AFP
GMT 08:55 2018 Tuesday ,23 January
Russian speed skater An 'banned from Olympics for doping'GMT 16:34 2018 Sunday ,14 January
Spanish tax authorities scrutinise Messi foundationGMT 16:31 2018 Sunday ,14 January
Del Potro ready for Melbourne despite Auckland lossGMT 09:06 2018 Sunday ,07 January
Leicester and Northampton end losing streaksGMT 12:07 2018 Friday ,05 January
Konta retires injured from Brisbane quarter-finalGMT 11:36 2018 Thursday ,04 January
Mountain bike world champ seriously hurt in car crashGMT 17:51 2018 Wednesday ,03 January
Sock injured, veteran Cash back on court in chaotic Hopman matchGMT 16:33 2018 Tuesday ,02 January
Browns end perfectly awful season -- 0-16Maintained and developed by Arabs Today Group SAL.
All rights reserved to Arab Today Media Group 2023 ©
Maintained and developed by Arabs Today Group SAL.
All rights reserved to Arab Today Media Group 2023 ©