Traille won't make European showpiece

Star centre Damien Traille has been all but officially ruled out of the Paris showdown against Toulouse after failing to recover from an arm injury.

Traille has been one of Biarritz's most consistent performers in recent years and is among the most famous names in the Basque club's squad.

"Damien had to withdraw because playing would be too risky and could sideline him for a long time," said Biarritz manager Laurent Rodriguez.

But while the 30-year-old's absence will be a major blow for the 2006 beaten finalists, Biarritz have coped without Traille before.

Traille missed the semi-final clash with Munster at the beginning of the month but Biarritz still overcame the Irish giants 18-7 in San Sebastian.

Meanwhile, there was good news for Biarritz after Rodriquez added that skipper Imanol Harinordoquy will be fit for Saturday's final.

The in-form No8 played against Munster with a spectacular face mask that was designed to protect a broken nose.

Harinordoquy was then replaced after an hour of the semi-final triumph after suffering a rib injury, prompting concerns that he too could be a high-profile absentee in Paris.

"Imanol is not in pain any more," added Rodriguez.

"We are confident he will be able to lead our team."