George Moala (Clermont) retires before the Challenge semi-final against the Sharks

Hard blow for Clermont: A few hours before kick-off for the Challenge semi-final against the Sharks, this Saturday at 1.30pm, the Auvergnats had to decide whether to do without the services of George Moala. The powerful All Black center felt discomfort in his hip and will therefore not be able to bring his physical density to the middle of the pitch against the South Africans.

This is the second important withdrawal for the Auvergne three-quarter line this week, which had recorded the withdrawal of Alivereti Raka, author of a hat-trick last weekend in the Top 14 against Paris, but who remained in Clermont due to a finger infection.

To replace Moala, Christophe Urios decided to start Léon Darricarrère, first on the bench, alongside Julien Hériteau. This allows young Yérim Fall (age 20) to inherit a replacement role.