France's Women's Six Nations campaign has suffered a significant setback with star centre Gabrielle Vernier ruled out for the remainder of the tournament due to a shoulder injury.
Vernier, who earned her 60th cap for France during their 38-7 victory over Wales in Cardiff on Saturday, was forced off the pitch in the 48th minute. The 28-year-old's absence will be felt across France's remaining fixtures, including Saturday's clash with Ireland, their upcoming match against Scotland, and a potential Grand Slam decider against England on May 17.
In response to the injury, head coach Francois Ratier has called up 18-year-old Aelig Tregouet as Vernier's replacement. Tregouet, who plays for Toulouse, has represented France in sevens rugby but has yet to earn a senior cap in the 15-a-side format.
Vernier's injury compounds France's challenges in the midfield, as they have already lost key centre Joanna Grisez to a knee ligament injury earlier in the competition. Despite these setbacks, France remain in strong contention, having secured victories in their opening two matches against Italy and Wales. They currently sit second in the table, trailing only world champions England.
France will host Ireland this Saturday in Clermont, a rematch of their World Cup quarter-final encounter, which France won. The team will need to adapt quickly to Vernier's absence as they continue their pursuit of Six Nations glory.