Former France scrumhalf Rory Kockott has come out of retirement to join Stade Francais as Rugby World Cup cover, the Parisian club announced on Tuesday.

South Africa-born Kockott, 37, ended his career in 2022 before spending last season as Castres' defence coach.

Stade Francais have just three fit scrumhalves to start the new Top 14 season with New Zealand scrumhalf Brad Weber only arriving in the French capital after the World Cup.

"We identified the need to strengthen in the position," Stade Francais defence coach Paul Gustard said in a statement.

"Rory was available, competitive and wished to put his hand up to the challenge," Gustard added.

Stade Francais open their Top 14 campaign by heading to Perpignan on 18 August.

The league will take a seven-week break during the World Cup held in France after three rounds of domestic games.