Bayonne’s resurgence in the Top 14 continues with positive news on the injury front ahead of a crucial match against La Rochelle. Following a hard-fought victory over Montauban last week, which ended a frustrating seven-game losing streak, Aviron Bayonnais is cautiously optimistic as they prepare to face the defending champions. The match, a significant fixture in the race for a playoff spot, will be played at Anoeta Stadium in San Sebastián, a venue Bayonne has increasingly utilized for high-profile contests. This game represents a key opportunity for Bayonne to solidify their position and close the gap on the top eight.
The return of several key players from injury and illness has boosted morale within the squad. Third-row forward Baptiste Chouzenoux, who was sidelined due to illness during the trip to Montauban, is now in contention to start against La Rochelle. Emerick Setiano, also returning to full fitness, adds further strength to the Bayonne pack. But, the team will be without Joris Segonds, who was absent from Tuesday’s training session, leaving his availability for Saturday’s match uncertain. The team’s strategic decision to play at Anoeta, as reported by Rugbyrama, underscores their commitment to hosting important games in a stadium capable of accommodating a large and passionate fanbase.
Injury Updates and Team Composition
Tuesday’s training session at Jean Dauger saw a welcome sight for Bayonne supporters: a significant number of players returning to full participation. Chouzenoux’s recovery is particularly encouraging, as he was initially expected to start in Montauban. While Giovanni Habel Kuffner continues his rehabilitation from an Achilles tendon injury and Baptiste Héguy is recovering from a virus, other forwards are available for selection. Esteban Capilla, Rodrigo Bruni, Manex Ariceta, and Raphaël Marchesin all participated in the training session. Alexandre Fischer, recovering from a hamstring tear sustained at Clermont, is progressing with his re-athleticization program. Notably, Rob Leota was not present at training, his absence currently unexplained.
The second row also shows signs of improvement. Arthur Iturria, who started against Clermont but missed the Montauban match, is nearing a return to full fitness. Lucas Paulos and Alexandre Moon also took part in the session. In the front row, Vincent Giudicelli’s return from a Racing 92-related injury provides coach Travers-Fraser with more options at hooker, alongside Martin and Bosch. The team has a wealth of choices on both sides of the scrum, with Bordelai, Castillon, Cormenier, and Calles competing on the loosehead side, and Tatafu, Tagi, Cotet, and Setiano vying for positions on the tighthead.
Segonds’ Absence and Erbinartegaray’s Progress
The backline situation presents a mixed picture. Herschel Jantjies, Baptiste Tilloles, and Baptiste Germain are all vying for the scrum-half position. At fly-half, Gareth Anscombe and Tom Spring are both available, but the absence of Joris Segonds from training raises concerns about his fitness. His status will be closely monitored in the coming days. The centers, however, are in good shape, with Sireli Maqala, Guillaume Martocq, Manu Tuilagi, and Federico Mori all fit and available. The wings also boast a strong selection pool, including Tom Levêque, Gabriel Lapègue, Mateo Carreras, and Victor Hannoun.
Arnaud Erbinartegaray is also making good progress in his recovery from a muscle injury that kept him out of the Montauban game. He focused heavily on physical conditioning during the early part of the week, suggesting he is not far from a return to competitive action. The coaching staff will need to make a decision between Cheikh Tiberghien and Yohan Orabé for the fullback position, both of whom contributed to the win over Montauban. Bayonne’s tactical flexibility will be crucial against a formidable La Rochelle side.
The team’s decision to play at Anoeta, a stadium with a capacity of over 30,000, reflects a desire to create a strong home advantage. As Rugbyrama reported, the victory over Montauban was a much-needed boost for Bayonne, ending a difficult run of form and bringing them within four points of the top eight. The match against La Rochelle is therefore a pivotal moment in their season.
Looking ahead, the availability of Joris Segonds will be a key factor in Bayonne’s preparations. The coaching staff will carefully assess his condition throughout the week before making a final decision on his inclusion in the squad. The team will continue to monitor the progress of other injured players, with the aim of having as many key personnel available as possible for this crucial Top 14 encounter. Updates on player fitness will be provided as they turn into available.
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