France megastar Antoine Dupont confirms ligament tear after dominating Ireland

Dupont suffered the injury during France's impressive 42-27 rout of Ireland in Dublin on Saturday. The scrumhalf was behind a ruck when lock Tadhg Beirne fell on his right leg, causing it to buckle.

The incident was reviewed by the TMO who found no foul play. Beirne was one of three Irish players referred by France coach Fabian Galthie for citings after the match, but the citing commissioner cleared all three.

On Sunday, Dupoint took to Instagram to reveal the bad news.

"The heart is even more painful than the knee when it's time to leave the friends behind before the last step," read the caption.

"I am proud of what we accomplished yesterday and of all my strength with you, you're going to make it.Torn cruciate ligaments. It's the beginning of a new challenge, I'll meet you in a few months on the field."

France megaclub Toulouse - who now face the business end of the Champions Cup without their talismanic leader - responded to the post

"We'll accompany you in this test so that you come back stronger, captain," said the club.

Romain Ntamack, his halfback partner for club and country, added: "Courage, my friend, we're all with you."

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