The 47-times capped front rower damaged his shoulder in the World Cup semi-final defeat to South Africa in Japan on 27 October last year and was forced to undergo surgery. Not only did he miss the Bronze Final against New Zealand, but also the first four rounds of the Guinness Six Nations.
Then came lockdown and the chance to recover from his operation. Now he is back up to speed and can continue to chase domestic and European honours with the Chiefs, as well as closing in on his half-century of international caps.
Having created a home gym in his garage, the 28-year-old has worked hard to get back to full power and fitness and can’t wait to get back on the field against Leicester Tigers at Sandy Park this weekend.
“Lockdown was almost a positive for me in my recovery. It meant I could slow down and work my way back at my own pace. It also meant I wasn’t missing any rugby,” said Francis.
Former Cardiff Blues, Wales and British & Irish Lions wing Alex Cuthbert is also back in the mix after recovering from injury. The Welsh duo will be hoping to keep the Chiefs five points clear of Sale Sharks at the top of the table.
Former Wales U20 captain Tommy Reffell will be hoping to get the nod to start for the Tigers under new head coach Steve Borthwick. The Midlands club have also recruited Welsh fitness guru Aled Walters, who helped the Springboks win the World Cup last year, as their new Head of Physical Performance.
Dan Biggar is set to line-up for Northampton Saints at home against Thomas Young’s Wasps side on Sunday, while Taulupe Faletau is ready to roar for Bath when they host London Irish. Aled Davies is hoping to make his Saracens debut to boost his chances of playing for the defending champions in their Heineken Champions Cup quarter-final against Leinster in Dublin.
