Rabah Slimani, a 36-year-old international rugby player, suffered a thumb fracture during Toulon's 29-27 loss to Castres last Saturday. The injury, reported by L'Équipe, will keep him out of action for several weeks. This comes at a difficult time for Toulon, who are preparing to host Vannes in the fourth round of the Top 14, a professional rugby league in France. Slimani joined Toulon this summer after playing for Leinster in the previous two seasons. He had started on the bench against La Rochelle and was later introduced into the game at Pierre-Fabre Stadium. He was substituted at the 47th minute and replaced by Owen Sorhaindo. With 59 caps for the French national team, his recruitment was aimed at strengthening Toulon's scrum, a crucial aspect of the game involving the forward pack. Slimani's absence is particularly significant, as he was known for his expertise in the scrum, especially in positioning supports, adjusting the height of the pelvis, and reading opposing pushes. These skills, though not as visually striking as a powerful charge, are essential in the Top 14 for maintaining stability and control during scrums. Toulon is already without Beka Gigashvili, who is recovering from a foot injury, and Dany Priso, who is still recovering from an Achilles tendon injury. The lack of depth in the team's first line is becoming more apparent as the championship reaches its fourth round. Kyle Sinckler offers experience on the right side, while 21-year-old Owen Sorhaindo finds himself in a more prominent role due to the team's injuries. Toulon faces Vannes on Saturday at 16:35, following three consecutive losses, and losing a scrum specialist like Slimani adds to the challenges of a team still searching for its first win.