One change for France as Galthie names his team to host Scotland

Fabien Galthie has announced a France team to host Scotland on Sunday that contains just one starting XV alteration from the round two Guinness Six Nations loss to Ireland. That Dublin defeat was the first for the French since July 2021 and the defending championship champions have reacted by limiting change to only a single enforced swap.

Tighthead Uini Atonio was cited post-game at the Aviva Stadium for his first-half, head-high collision with Ireland’s Rob Herring and he was subsequently suspended for three games.

That ban can be reduced to two if he successfully completes tackle school – successful completion would free him for selection in the final France match of the Six Nations, the March 18 game at home to Wales. In the meantime, his No3 jersey has been taken against Scotland by Mohamed Haouas.

Matt Giteau – Eddie Jones’ revenge and Six Nations chaos | RugbyPass offload | EP 65

Matt Giteau – Eddie Jones’ revenge and Six Nations chaos | RugbyPass offload | EP 65

The Montpellier front-rower, who is said to be joining Clermont next season, hasn’t been capped by France since two appearances in last year’s Six Nations.

All the rest of the match day 23 to face the Scots is the same as it was against Ireland, Galthie retaining his full faith in his France team despite their first loss in 19 months.

🇫🇷🆚🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿 𝗙𝗥𝗔𝗡𝗖𝗘/𝗘𝗖𝗢𝗦𝗦𝗘, c'est dimanche à 16h au @StadeFrance ! #FRAECO

🔥💪 On compte sur vous pour soutenir votre #XVdeFrance ! #NeFaisonsXV pic.twitter.com/mEJlmRygV8

— France Rugby (@FranceRugby) February 24, 2023