La Rochelle’s Atonio, who weighs more than 140kg, was expected to miss Saturday’s match against Japan in Paris after picking up an injury in Top 14 action a week ago, but was called up to set- up to replace the uncapped Regis. Mountains.

The 62-capped Atonio is only fit to return in time for the November 16 match against his country of birth, New Zealand.

Montagne de la Clermont has been ruled out, while fellow new face in the lock Joshua Brennan has also dropped out of the squad, but with a facial injury.

Brennan’s place at Toulouse has been taken by Montagne’s club team-mate Killian Tixeront, who made his Test debut against Argentina in July’s sensational tour.

After playing Japan and the All Blacks, Fabien Galthie’s side close their autumn campaign against Argentina on November 22.

Antoine Dupont captains the 42-man squad in his return to the 15s after missing the summer tournament and the Six Nations, when he won the Olympic gold medal.

© 2024 AFP