Overview

• Rugby Australia confirmed the lock will fly back to France this week to rejoin La Rochelle ahead of the Top 14 season.
• He will miss the Rugby Championship home fixtures against Argentina in Townsville and Sydney, with no guarantee of featuring against New Zealand.
• The move followed negotiations under World Rugby Regulation 9, with Skelton, La Rochelle and Rugby Australia agreeing on a return to rest and prepare.
• Skelton’s exit removes a key set-piece presence for Joe Schmidt and opens a selection opportunity for Lukhan Salakaia-Loto in the second row.
• A Bledisloe Cup cameo was discussed recently according to reporting, though no commitment has been made, and Schmidt says Skelton remains in longer-term plans.