France boss Fabien Galthie has included eight uncapped players in his squad of 42 for the upcoming Guinness Six Nations.
London Irish director of rugby Declan Kidney accepted that the dismissal of hooker Agustin Creevy was the turning point as his side lost 32-27 to Montpellier in their Heineken Champions Cup opener.
Irish looked firmly in control when they led 24-6 in the 34th minute, but the Argentinian’s red card turned the game.
France have called up 15 extra players ahead of their rugby Test against South Africa, including a replacement for injured lock Killian Geraci.
France have recalled Fijian-born Clermont winger Alivereti Raka for the autumn international series, which kicks off with a test against Australia.
Ex-France hooker Guilhem Guirado enjoyed a rousing send-off after playing the final match of his stellar professional career, helping Montpellier to win its first-ever Top 14 title on Friday night.
The Tigers were unable to join city neighbours Leicester City in winning silverware in the capital.
Leicester and Montpellier have named their teams for Friday night's Challenge Cup final at Twickenham which will have 10,000 fans present.
Unlike football's transfer windows, rugby's system leads to situations such as Zach Mercer playing for Bath against his new club Montpellier.
