Stade Français lock crocked

On ice: David Auradou

Stade Français lock David Auradou will miss the start of the French and European season after sustaining a serious shoulder injury at a pre-season training camp.

Auradou hurt his shoulder while taking part in a 'water-jumping activity' at the Parisian side's high-altitude training camp at the Alpine ski resort of Tignes.

The 34-year-old is expected to be out of action for at least three months after undergoing surgery last Tuesday.

The injury means that Auradou will probably have to wait until next year to add to his 60 European caps, as he will miss Stade's opening rounds of Heineken Cup rugby in October against Ulster and Scarlets.

The 2m tall, 108kg lock is no stranger to pre-season injuries. Last year he was unable make his debut on time for Paris other club, Racing-Métro for similar reasons.

The former France international moved back to Stade Français in the inter-season after Racing-Métro failed to win promotion to the Top 14.