Brunel rings the changes for Twickenham clash

– Centre Mathieu Bastareaud (below) returns as South African-born lock Paul Willemse is dropped to the bench in two of six changes for France’s Six Nations fixture against England tomorrow, the French Rugby Federation announced.

The experienced Bastareaud, who has 50 caps,was not included in the squad for last weekend’s loss to Wales in the competition’s opening game but is recalled for the trip to Twickenham.

La Rochelle’s Geoffrey Doumayrou joins Bastareaud in the midfield as Wesley Fofana is sidelined by a thigh injury and teenager Romain Ntamack falls to the bench.

Coach Jacques Brunel said Bastareaud’s selection is due to England’s physical strength.

“We know the impact he will have. Against the power they have in midfield, which has been strengthened by Manu Tuilagi, he can have an interesting impact,” the 65-year-old said.

“He’s important for the team as a whole. It’s important that he starts because he’s an important option to face England,” he added.

Willemse, who made his debut against Warren Gatland’s side, is replaced by 24-year-old Felix Lambey who will start his first Test after three appearances as a substitute.

The other changes see youngster Demba Bamba start his maiden Test at tight-head prop instead of injured Uini Atonio, flanker Yacouba Camara is in for Wenceslas Lauret and Stade Francais’ Gael Fickou is brought in on the left wing as the back-three are shuffled because of Maxime Medard’s thigh problem.

Toulouse’s Thomas Ramos and Dorian Aldegheri could make their international debuts as replacements. – AFP