Uncapped France flanker Matiu starts v England

Uncapped France flanker Matiu starts v England

Flanker Temo Matiu will make his debut in France’s final Six Nations game against England in Paris on Saturday.

The 24-year-old starts in place of Oscar Jegou, who was given a four-week suspension for an eye gouge against Scotland.

Fabien Galthie’s side were defeated 50-40 by Scotland last weekend to deny them a possible Grand Slam, but they can still secure a record eighth Six Nations crown with a bonus-point win on Saturday (20:10 GMT kick-off).

In three personnel changes to the pack, powerful Toulouse lock Emmanuel Meafou starts, while Charles Ollivon moves from the second row to number eight in place of the injured Anthony Jelonch.

Centre Pierre-Louis Barassi comes in for the injured Nicolas Depoortere, with Joshua Brennan, son of former Toulouse and Ireland flanker Trevor Brennan, named on the bench.

Les Bleus are chasing back-to-back Six Nations titles for the first time since 2006 and 2007.

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Line-ups

France: Ramos; Attissogbe, Barassi, Moefana, Bielle-Biarrey; Jalibert, Dupont (capt); Gros, Marchand, Aldegheri, Flament, Meafou, Cros, Matiu, Ollivon.

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  • Rugby Union

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Source: BBC
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