Porter says no foul play in Dupont injury incident

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France head coach Fabien Galthie criticized the behavior of Tadhg Beirne and Porter regarding the incident that resulted in Dupont's season-ending injury, labeling their actions as "reprehensible," even though neither received a penalty during the match.

Galthie brought the actions of the Irish players to the attention of the match's citing commissioner, yet no repercussions have been taken against them.

In the 28th minute, Dupont was attempting to intercept the ball when he was challenged by Beirne, who subsequently landed on the scrum-half's right leg as Porter joined the ruck.

Porter affirmed that he did not engage in any foul play, mentioning that he had sent a message wishing Dupont well via Instagram.

"His [Galthie’s] comments are his own, we'll see what that leads to," stated Porter.

"I was aware of my actions. I had no intention of causing injury. That’s not who I am as a player." Porter remarked that the France head coach calling for serious repercussions was "a bit much."

"He’s such an essential player for them that they hardly want him to be touched at all.

"Galthie is entitled to his viewpoint, but I know I didn’t do anything wrong. I rest easy at night."

The Irish prop compared the current incident to the career-ending injury suffered by his teammate Dan Leavy in 2019.

Similar to Leavy, Dupont's knee became trapped amid collapsing players during a Leinster clash with Ulster, but Porter maintained that there was no one to blame.

"The incident on Saturday was just a part of rugby. I can hardly recall what happened exactly. I believe it occurred in a ruck, where his leg got caught while he was trying to counter, and it just got trapped... but that’s rugby; it happens.

"I don't think there were calls for anyone to be cited when Dan Leavy injured his knee years back, leading to his early retirement."

Porter expressed that following their defeat to France, Ireland is focused on showcasing their true abilities in their upcoming Six Nations match against Italy.

The championship is no longer within Ireland's control as they need to win against Italy in Rome and hope that the outcomes of Saturday’s matches favor them to secure a historic third consecutive Six Nations title.

Second-placed England will play against Wales, while leaders France have control over their own fate facing Scotland in Paris for the final game of this year’s tournament.

"We can dwell on our loss all we want, but we have another task ahead next Saturday. If anything, it has inspired us to play the rugby we know we are capable of," he remarked.

"We’re up against Italy on their home ground, a team with immense pride. We aim to perform to our potential and deliver a display that makes us proud as players."