Scots awaiting go-ahead for clash in Paris

FRANCE’S chance of avoiding a postponement of their Guinness Six Nations rugby clash with Scotland on Sunday have improved after the latest round of coronavirus testing returned no further positives.

An outbreak amongst the tournament favourites’ squad has produced 10 Covid-19 cases, including star scrum-half Antoine Dupont and captain Charles Ollivon.

Six Nations organisers are to decide today if the Stade de France showdown can go ahead, but the results of Monday night’s testing points to an easing of the crisis.

Flanker Ollivon, prop Cyril Baille, hooker Peato Mauvaka, lock Romain Taofifenua and fullback Brice Dulin were the five new cases uncovered to place the visit of Scotland to Paris in doubt.

Nine of the 23-man squad that sent Ireland spinning to a 15-13 defeat have tested positive.

After the Dublin win, the French Rugby Federation released footage on social media of the team celebrating in the changing room.

In addition to the positive tests produced by players, head coach Fabien Galthie is one of several members of France’s management team to be self-isolating. l Scotland back-row forward Nick Haining has extended his Edinburgh contract.

The 30-year-old has made 19 appearances since joining from Bristol in the summer of 2019 and won his first Scotland cap last year.