Louis Bielle-Biarrey rested again by Bordeaux-Bègles

Louis Bielle-Biarrey will miss Bordeaux-Bègles’ Top 14 trip to Perpignan for a second straight match. The France winger has been left out as the club protects him from unnecessary strain rather than risks a return before he is ready.

The 23-year-old was absent for last weekend’s home win over Stade Français after also watching the previous match against Toulouse from the stands. He will now sit out the fourth round, with Arthur Retiere selected to start on the wing alongside Damian Penaud at Aimé-Giral. Hugo Avogadro, who replaced Bielle-Biarrey against Paris, is not included this time.

Bordeaux-Bègles’ backs coach Noel McNamara said the winger appeared tired after the Toulouse match and that the squad wanted to give opportunities to players with fewer minutes. Salesi Rayasi and Retiere were among those identified for greater involvement. Bielle-Biarrey is expected to have a demanding November because of France’s international call-up period, making workload management a priority for the European champions.

The decision extends his break at the start of the Top 14 campaign while Bordeaux-Bègles turn to other options on the wings. Bielle-Biarrey was named the best player in the past two Six Nations tournaments, underlining his importance, but the club has indicated that more matches remain for him later in the season.