France captain Antoine Dupont has left his team's Guinness Six Nations clash against Ireland at Aviva Stadium with an apparent knee injury following a breakdown collision.

The star scrum-half departed in the 29th minute after sustaining the injury in a physical contest, with France holding a narrow 5-0 lead. Dupont looked in discomfort as he was helped off the field, dealing a significant blow to Les Bleus.

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France had taken an early advantage through an unconverted try to Louis Bielle-Biarrey,  but losing their influential playmaker could shift momentum in favor of the defending champions, Ireland.

The match, a crucial fixture in the Six Nations title race, has been played at a relentless pace, with both sides delivering high-intensity physicality. Ireland, seeking a record third consecutive championship, will look to capitalise on Dupont’s absence as they push for a response.

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There has been no official update yet on the severity of Dupont’s injury, with the French Rugby Federation expected to assess him further. The game remains in the balance as France aims to hold on to their lead in Dublin.