Top 14: Bordeaux-Bègles recovers several strengths before facing Racing 92

Bordeaux-Bègles, significantly reduced in recent weeks by “doubles” and an overflowing infirmary, should see the return of several experienced players for the reception of Racing 92 on Saturday in the Top 14.

At the position of scrum half, orphan of Maxime Lucu, protected player for the French XV in the middle of the Six Nations Tournament, Yann Lesgourgues should finally start his season, he who ruptured the cruciate ligaments of one knee during the summer preparation.

Another reinforced sector, the second line with the returns of the Australian-Tongian Adam Coleman (ankle) and Cyril Cazeaux (calf), who had been absent for one and three months respectively.

On the front line, where young hopefuls Zaccharie Affane and Yahnis El Maslouhi discovered the Top 14, left-hander Ugo Boniface treated a gash on his knee followed by an infection which kept him away from the field for a month.

Finally, behind, where the UBB has been tinkering for weeks due to the absences of its internationals Maxime Lucu, Matthieu Jalibert, Yoram Moefana, Louis Bielle-Biarrey and Damian Penaud, and the recent injuries of Madosh Tambwe (broken hand), and of Ben Tapuai (fracture of the malar bone), the experienced Nans Ducuing finished with a ischios injury which lasted two months. The international full-back (4 selections) could start against the Ile-de-France residents.

UBB, which remains on two home defeats against Stade français and Pau, occupies 4th place in the Top 14, one point ahead of Racing 92.