Nicolas Mas has been called up as a replacement for 31-year-old Marconnet, who will not recover from an ankle injury in time to feature in the tournament.

In a statement released by the French Rugby Federation (FFR) and reported on the www.lequipe.fr website, the governing body announced: 'Following examinations...carried out last week at the Roseraie Clinic, Dr Landreau has taken the decision to carry out further surgery on Sylvain to do a new procedure on the ankle that has already been operated on.'

Marconnet did not hide his dismay at missing out on playing in the World Cup on home soil.
He said: 'I am obviously very disappointed to not play in this World Cup in France and to leave my team-mates in the French team.

'I thank the sporting and medical staff of Les Bleus for having supported me in my bid to be fit for the competition.

'But I have to follow the medical advice of my surgeon and have an operation quickly so I can be back again with my club, Stade Francais.'

Marconnet sustained a broken tibia in March while skiing with his daughter.

The veteran of 71 caps then underwent an operation and was given an initial diagnosis of six months out. He had vowed to get fit in time for the World Cup, which begins next month, and coach Bernard Laporte named him in his initial party of 30 for the World Cup.

In July he was able to jog again but started to feel pain again in mid-August.

Monday's announcement now opens the door for Perpignan player Mas to take his place in the squad.