France and Toulouse star fly-half Romain Ntamack is set to miss the 2023 Rugby World Cup due to an injury to his left knee. 

The 24-year-old appeared to twist his knee while tackling his opposite number, Finn Russell, in this past weekend’s match in Saint Etienne. 

Speaking post-match, head coach Fabien Galthie said of the injury, “We preferred to replace him. He was seen by the doctor and the physiotherapists. We will decide on Sunday if there needs to be additional examinations.” 

Now reported by French publication L’Equipe, it is understood that Ntamack tore his left cruciate in the knee. 

L'ouvreur tricolore Romain Ntamack, qui s'est rompu les ligaments croisés du genou gauche, manquera finalement la Coupe du monde.https://t.co/Adl4eLD6bp pic.twitter.com/qk80FcM3la

— L'ÉQUIPE (@lequipe) August 14, 2023

Ntamack’s injury is a significant blow for the hosts, who have benefitted significantly from his combination with clubmate Antione Dupont over the past three seasons. 

His injury likely will see Bordeaux’s Mathieu Jalibert elevated to the starting role come the opening match of the World Cup against New Zealand.