Rugby: France lose Auradou

France lock David Auradou will miss the Six Nations clash against Scotland on March 23 because of a hand injury.

The 28-year-old Stade Francais player damaged a cruciate thumb ligament on Saturday during the 29-25 win over Colomiers, which opened the door to the top-16 play-offs for the capital side.

Auradou will have an operation today and is expected to be out for around three weeks.

His Stade Francais team-mate Pieter de Villiers could also pull out of Les Bleus’ Murrayfield clash because of an ankle injury which needs a week’s rest.

Both men have played their part in making France hot favourites to lift the Six Nations title after victories over Italy, Wales and England.

The thrilling win against the English in Paris also saw Bernard Laporte’s team take over as most people’s tip for the first grand slam of the expanded tournament.