Teddy Thomas scored one of the tries of the weekend against Australia, but after a dream start to his Test career, has since been dropped by coach Philippe Saint-Andre for missing a training session. Here is a look at that great try from last weekend.
Thomas scored four tries in two Tests, including a hat-trick on debut, but Saint Andre has made a stand against ill-discipline by dropping the rising star for their match against Argentina.
The 21-year-old Racing Metro flyer arrived two hours late for training at the French national training centre outside Paris on Wednesday evening. So Maxime Medard was called up in his place.
“In the France group there are rules that everyone should respect,” Saint-Andre said.
“Teddy, who we love a lot, has forgotten these. When you play in the France team you have to be beyond reproach and respectful on and off the field. I had a meeting yesterday (Wednesday) with Teddy and he understands. I’m sure it will make him grow up,” the former France winger added.
Thomas was incredibly remorseful, no doubt shocked, and took to his Facebook page to apologise.
“The rules of the France group shouldn’t be broken and I want to offer my sincerest apologies to the staff and the France team, to my teammates, to all the Bleus fans and our sport,” he said.
“I also want to clarify, not by way of justification, that it was my fault and although it should be punished, it was in no way a question of insolent or arrogant behaviour.”
Serge Blanco, vice-president of the French rugby federation, said that while nobody has died, this is about the respect that should exist within the group – when given a time, you should remember it.
“It shows that in the France group nobody is indispensable. He will serve as an example for everyone,” the legendary French fullback explained.
France play Argentina this weekend, following a 40-15 win over Fiji, and 29-26 win over Australia.
Earlier this week we saw the five contenders for Try of the Year, which included one from the Autumn Internationals. Some asked why Thomas’ wasn’t included, so here is another look at it.
credit: rustycruiser
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