Jones makes bold call as Furbank returns for Le Crunch

George Furbank starts at full-back in a surprise tactical switch for England’s Six Nations finale with Grand Slam chasing France.

Leicester’s Freddie Steward has started at 15 throughout the tournament but moves to the wing as Max Malins drops out of the squad altogether, whilst Ben Youngs replaces Harry Randall at scrum half.

Eddie Jones has named his side to face France in our final @SixNationsRugby match on Saturday 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿🇫🇷#WearTheRose | @O2

— England Rugby (@EnglandRugby) March 17, 2022

In the pack, Sam Underhill comes into the back row in place of the injured Tom Curry and Nick Isiekwe comes in for the suspended Charlie Ewels in the second row, while Will Stuart starts in place of Kyle Sinckler.

England are attempting to avoid a second successive fifth-place finish in the Championship, with defeat potentially leaving only Italy below them in the table.

Head coach Eddie 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.”

🇫🇷⚡️🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 Prêts pour 𝐜𝐞 𝐝𝐞𝐫𝐧𝐢𝐞𝐫 𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐳-𝐯𝐨𝐮𝐬 du tournoi avec nos supporters ! 🔥

À samedi ! 💪💪 #FRAANG #XVdeFrance #NeFaisonsXV pic.twitter.com/UnaWB2vcvy

— France Rugby (@FranceRugby) March 17, 2022

Meanwhile France have made just one change from last week’s win over Wales, with winger Damian Penaud returning after isolating following a positive Covid test, as Yoram Moefana drops out of the 23.

Fabian Galthie has opted for a 6-2 split on the bench as his French side aim to win their first Grand Slam in 12 years.

Written by Ben Jaycock