Eddie Jones names his England team to play France today with numerous changes expected for their Six Nations finale.
Although England’s Six Nations title hopes came to an end last weekend, Jones’ side will still take a lot of positives after displaying admirable determination in defeat.
Courtney Lawes will captain the side at blind-side flanker, while Sam Underhill (open-side flanker) makes his first appearance for England since their win over South Africa in November 2021. Sam Simmonds is No. 8.
Nic Dolly and Ollie Chessum are named as finishers. They are joined by Joe Marler, Kyle Sinckler, Alex Dombrandt, Harry Randall, George Ford and Elliot Daly on the bench.
Jones said: “This is our strongest 23 for the game against France. We are disappointed not to be in the contention for the trophy but last week’s effort against Ireland was full of pride, energy and tactical discipline.
“We have focused on refreshing the team this week and we are ready to empty the tank on Saturday.”
Scroll down for the expected England team to play France.
Round five fixtures: Saturday 19 March
- Wales vs. Italy (2.15pm; Principality Stadium, Cardiff; BBC/S4C)
- Ireland vs. Scotland (4.45pm; Aviva Stadium, Dublin; ITV)
- France vs. England (8pm; Stade de France, Paris; ITV)
Table after round four
Graphic: twitter.com/SixNationsRugby
When is France v England?
Saturday, March 19.
What time is kick-off?
8pm GMT.
What TV channel is France v England on?
The match at the Stade de France will be on ITV.
Who is the referee?
- Referee: Jaco Peyper (SARU)
- Assistant Referee 1: Mike Adamson (SRU)
- Assistant Referee 2: Frank Murphy (IRFU)
- TMO: Marius Jonker (SARU)
Are there any fan parks?!
Sporting events company, 4TheFans has launched its first London rugby ‘fan park’ bringing rugby fans together safely to enjoy the historic Six Nations tournament.
England team to play France:
15. George Furbank
14. Freddie Steward
13. Joe Marchant
12. Henry Slade
11. Jack Nowell
10. Marcus Smith
9. Ben Youngs
1. Ellis Genge
2. Jamie George
3. Will Stuart
4. Maro Itoje
5. Nick Isiekwe
6. Courtney Lawes
7. Sam Underhill
8. Sam Simmonds
Finishers
16. Nic Dolly (Leicester Tigers, 1 cap)
17. Joe Marler
18. Kyle Sinckler
19. Ollie Chessum
20. Alex Dombrandt
21. Harry Randall
22. George Ford
23. Elliot Daly