Injury concerns for French

Auckland - France fly-half David Skrela suffered a badly bruised shoulder during their opening 47-21 World Cup victory over Japan on Saturday, a member of the French coaching team said.

The 32-year-old had only been on the pitch for 11 minutes after coming on as a replacement in the second half before he had to go off.

The same source revealed that centre Fabrice Estebanez had been forced off after taking a heavy blow to his lower back.

"I couldn't even put my feet on the ground after being hit, but now it's getting better," said Estebanez.

France's next match is against Canada on September 18 in Napier.

Coach Marc Lievremont will name the starting XV for that clash on Tuesday.