We have our first dramatic pre-World Cup news flash.
Pauline Bourdon-Sansus, in many people’s eyes the greatest current Number 9, has been suspended for two matches.
She had made clear in the media (especially in the Sud-Ouest newspaper) her dissatisfaction with refereeing standards. Her criticism was aimed primarily at the reffing of the Elite 1 final (in which her side, Stade Toulousain, lost to double-winners Stade Bordelais. But she added a carping comment about general standards in Elite 1 matches.
The two matches she will miss are the friendly against England at Mont-de-Marsan and, more significantly, the first pool game against Italy in the World Cup. It is Brazil who may well have the pleasure of meeting PBS in action for the first time in the second round.
This is a reminder that players need to be on their best behaviour at all times. It isn’t only injury and non-selection that can keep you from taking part in the pinnacle event of 2025.
PBS has been a cornerstone of French efforts for the past decade. She has gained 66 caps.
Gaëlle Mignot, the co-coach, was quick to minimise the importance of her absence. Every squad member has equal standing in the eyes of the management. Yes, but a player of her quality can make the difference in the tightest of tight matches.
On the other hand, her absence does help to lessen the public’s concentration on her performance. One player doesn’t make a team. The co-coaches know they have a highly talented substitute in Alex Chambon, and it gives their third choice No 9, whoever she may turn out to be, the chance to play in two big matches.
From the disciplinary angle, it’s important that players reflect before making their opinions known to a news-hungry audience. Scrum-halves spend most of the game bending the referee’s ear. Only rarely do we overhear a warning given to a player for speaking out of turn. Leanne Infante comes to mind.
Some French voices have sided with PBS; theirs is an unwise reaction. There may be lapses in refereeing standards, but assessors and referee committees do their level best to ensure the highest standards at every level.
The referees chosen to officiate at the RWC are the best World Rugby can assemble. They have been assessed from top to tail; their verdicts must be respected. PBS’s fate is announced as players all over the world are deep into heavy training. We may be sure that coaching staffs will seize the opportunity to remind their players of their responsibilities.
The final 32 selected to represent France will be announced on 4 August.
