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A Six Nations title is within France’s reach with Les Bleus bidding to seal championship success in the final fixture of the tournament against Scotland in Paris.
Fabien Galthie’s side ensured that their fate was in their own hands with their dismantling of Ireland last weekend, seizing control of the Six Nations. A win here of any kind will be enough to secure the crown, although Ireland and England put the pressure on with victories of their own earlier on “Super Saturday”.
The hosts embark without their skipper after Antoine Dupont suffered a serious knee injury in Dublin, but Galthie again sticks with the power-packed bench that caused such havoc seven days ago.
Standing between the French and the title are Scotland, looking for a positive finish to a disappointing campaign. Hopes of a title challenge did not materialise for Gregor Townsend’s men after their run of Calcutta Cup dominance came to an end, and the Scots threatened to throw away a strong lead against Wales in the penultimate round, too. A positive finish would help build optimism for the future, though, and prove again that Townsend is the right man to lead Scotland forward.
Follow all of the latest from the Stade de France in our live blog below:
Peato Mauvaka's card remains yellow. Meanwhile, Scotland have found the key!
They are back in the game. Darcy Graham secures the try and Russell converts. Scotland are back within three.
Lucu sends a grubber kick towards the try-line and looks ready to score, but Ben White makes a brilliant recovery, diving back to beat Lucu to the ball and deny the try.
France now have a scrum just five metres from the line, presenting another strong attacking chance.
France win a penalty and Scotland are penalised for being offside. France opt to take the three points with Ramos' kick from right in front.
Finn Russell strikes true from the tee, putting Scotland on the scoreboard.
A crucial start. Ritchie is back on for Scotland, and they need him here as the French go in search for their second try.
Scotland win a penalty in the French 22 but play it too quickly, allowing Alldritt to win a penalty for France after pouncing on an isolated ball carrier.
A yellow-card is given to France hooker Peato Mauvaka. He appears to make contact with Ben White’s face while on the ground. The incident will be reviewed.
France get the first try! Yoram Moefana scores under the posts following Fickou's clever step and pass.
Ramos successfully converts..
Scotland concede another penalty, this time at the lineout. Finn Russell looks to argue with the referee Matthew Carley but he is swiftly dismissed. France have opted for the corner.
Scotland make good ground into the French 22, but Graham spills the ball, allowing France to counter.
Ntamack charges to halfway, attempts a solo run, but is tackled and the move breaks down with a French knock-on.
Penalty follows, a tough call against Scotland as Ritchie seems to have possession at the breakdown, yet is penalised. France are awarded some easy metres. Huge problem for Scotland here, now they are down a man.
Ritchie gets a yellow-card and he’s off.
Great carrying here from Scotland, they are searching for that energy and drive.
Matt Fagerson earns Scotland a penalty at the breakdown, giving them a chance to regroup and gain some ground.
A big tackle from France winger Penaud. France look threatening with the ball early on, but Scotland holds firm defensively, with Russell eventually forcing Flament into touch.
France are awarded a penalty after Scotland commit an infringement at the maul. Ramos steps up to take a shot to secure points on the board already.
France kick things off this evening in Paris.
We’re quickly underway!
A formidable venue and light show as the anthems begin. Scotland are up first.
We are just moments away from kick-off now.
ITV asks Gregor Townsend how Scotland intends to handle France's formidable seven-forward bench line-up.
"We went against something similar when we played South Africa in November.
“It's a mental challenge as well as a physical one to say, ok seven fresh forwards, but they've got to get up to the speed of the game we are playing and we have players who can come on too."
"We're under no illusions it will not be in any way easy. Scotland have been our bogey team the past four or five years.”
On the absence of Antoine Dupont, he adds: "We want to win it for Antoine. If it happens, I'm sure he'll be up there lifting the trophy with Greg Alldritt."
Louis Bielle-Biarrey is on the verge of making individual history. With seven tries to his name, he is currently tied for the most tries in a single Six Nations campaign. One more would see him claim the top spot outright.
Can he add to his tally tonight?
France have dominated their Six Nations encounters with Scotland, winning 20 of their last 25 meetings, while Scotland have claimed victory in just five.
When playing in France, Scotland have struggled, securing only one win in 12 attempts, back in 2021.
Scotland have made the most carries in the tournament and will look to involve their backs. Expect a predominantly physical approach from them. Although Scotland have lost their last three Six Nations away matches, the margin has been small.
England’s thrashing of Wales makes the permutations rather simpler this evening. Here are the mathematics you need to know:
What England need to win the Six Nations ahead of France finale
Finn Russell challenged Scotland to add some sheen to their Guinness Six Nations campaign in Paris as he lamented the fact they have only a “disruptor” role to play in this weekend’s three-way shootout for the title.
The Scots are set to end the championship as also-rans once more after their home defeat by Ireland on match-day two was followed by an agonising 16-15 loss away to England, in which Russell missed all three of his conversion attempts, including a last-minute kick that would have won the Calcutta Cup.
With just two home wins over Italy and Wales to their name, co-captain Russell believes a rare away victory over title-chasing France would go a long way to enhancing how their hitherto underwhelming campaign was viewed by the Scottish public.
Finn Russell urges Scotland to add some sheen to Six Nations campaign in Paris
It’s a seven/one bench again for France, the power-packed unit ever more en vogue in the international game. But not all are fans of the tactic - including Scotland boss Gregor Townsend...
The bold call that paid off for France against Ireland – and why it is controversial
Scotland make two changes in their pack with Gregor Brown given a first Six Nations start in the second row, and Matt Fagerson returning at No 8 after an injury to Jack Dempsey. The backline remains intact from the one that beat Wales, with all seven starters perhaps hoping to further their British and Irish Lions case with a strong tournament finish.
Scotland XV: 1 Pierre Schoeman, 2 Dave Cherry, 3 Zander Fagerson; 4 Gregor Brown, 5 Grant Gilchrist; 6 Jamie Ritchie, 7 Rory Darge (co-capt.), 8 Matt Fagerson; 9 Ben White, 10 Finn Russell (co-capt.); 11 Duhan van der Merwe, 12 Tom Jordan, 13 Huw Jones, 14 Darcy Graham; 15 Blair Kinghorn.
Replacements: 16 Ewan Ashman, 17 Rory Sutherland, 18 Will Hurd, 19 Ewan Johnson, 20 Marshall Sykes, 21 Ben Muncaster; 22 Jamie Dobie, 23 Stafford McDowall.
France are able to call upon Gael Fickou for the first time this tournament with the veteran centre filling the vacancy left by Pierre-Louis Barassi, who is out after a concussion. Maxime Lucu swaps in for Antoine Dupont after the scrum half’s cruciate ligament injury as Gregory Alldritt assumes the captaincy. It is again seven forwards on the bench after such a decisive impact against Ireland.
France XV: 1 Jean-Baptiste Gros, 2 Peato Mauvaka, 3 Uini Atonio; 4 Thibaud Flament, 5 Mickael Guillard; 6 Francois Cros, 7 Paul Boudehent, 8 Gregory Alldritt (capt); 9 Maxime Lucu, 10 Romain Ntamack; 11 Louis Bielle-Biarrey, 12 Yoram Moefana, 13 Gael Fickou, 14 Damian Penaud; 15 Thomas Ramos.
Replacements: 16 Julien Marchand, 17 Cyril Baille, 18 Dorian Aldegheri, 19 Hugo Auradou, 20 Emmanuel Meafou, 21 Oscar Jegou, 22 Anthony Jelonch; 23 Nolann Le Garrec.
Gregor Brown is the most notable inclusion in a largely familiar Scotland XV as Townsend looks to inject some fresh energy and dynamism into his pack. The 23-year-old Glasgow forward – a hybrid lock-flanker – will start in the second row after getting the nod over the experienced Jonny Gray. Brown has acquitted himself well since making his debut on last summer’s tour of the Americas and has started against Canada, Chile and Uruguay, but starting his first Six Nations match in Paris against the swashbuckling champions-elect represents comfortably the biggest challenge of his career to date.
Despite the formidable challenge facing them, Scotland are entitled to take heart from their recent form against France. Each of the last three meetings between the sides – last year’s Six Nations clash at Murrayfield and the two World Cup warm-up matches in August 2023 – were settled by just three or four points. Prior to that, Scotland competed well in their last Six Nations match in Paris two years ago and were well in the hunt until the hosts scored late to seal a 32-21 victory, while Townsend’s men enjoyed a rare success in the French capital in 2021, albeit behind closed doors. In short, they generally hold their own in France.
Scotland are out of title contention and even a win may not be enough to help them avoid another bottom-half finish. Their two wins came at home to Italy and Wales, the two weakest sides in the championship, but even then they made heavy weather of both matches. After back-to-back defeats against Ireland and England ruled them out of the equation for silverware and brought fresh debate about Gregor Townsend’s ability to move the team forward, the Scots could desperately do with – if not a victory – at least a rousing performance in Paris to emerge from a hitherto underwhelming campaign with some credit in the bank.
France go into their night of destiny without talismanic captain Antoine Dupont after he suffered an ACL injury in Dublin last week. While they would prefer to have him on the pitch for their big night, they can draw some solace from the fact they had to adapt to being without him throughout last year’s campaign and also for a small part of the 2023 World Cup. Les Bleus can call on a pretty handy replacement in Bordeaux’s Maxime Lucu, and their depth of options to cover for Dupont is highlighted by the fact their fourth-choice scrum-half Baptiste Serin is currently ahead of Scotland starter Ben White in the Toulon pecking order.
A partisan atmosphere awaits the Scots, with an expectant French crowd hoping to see their side claim the victory that will secure a first Six Nations title since 2022 and only a second championship triumph since 2010. A win for the visitors would pave the way for England or Ireland – who both play earlier in the day – to claim the honours, but Les Bleus have been in scintillating form for much of the tournament and will be confident of seizing their big chance under the Saturday-night lights at a packed Stade de France.
Gregory Alldritt has urged France to make their mark on history by closing out Six Nations glory against Scotland in Paris.
The Stade de France will be packed with expectant Les Bleus supporters for the championship finale, with the hosts knowing victory will secure their first title since 2022 and only their second triumph since 2010.
"There's a lot of excitement, it matters to all of us," said La Rochelle back-rower Alldritt, who will captain the side in the absence of Antoine Dupont, who suffered an ACL injury against Ireland last weekend.
"We're all motivated and we all can't wait for tomorrow night. It has been a formidable Six Nations so far.
“A title would be a further step for us, there's nothing mundane in that. Lifting a title, leaving your mark on history, seeing family members smiling in the crowds, making them proud are unforgettable moments. That's what you play for.
"Our visit to Invalides (war veteran museum and residency) strengthened that, speaking to those war veterans they said they are sensitive to our results. It adds a little more desire to what we do in the week and why we wear the shirt on the weekend."
Gregor Townsend believes Scotland have shown enough quality against France in recent seasons to go to Paris with optimism for tonight’s Six Nations finale.
The Scots face what their head coach described as "probably the biggest challenge in world rugby right now" as they bid to stop Les Bleus landing the victory they are likely to require to seal a first title since 2022 at Stade de France.
However, Townsend is heartened by the way his team have performed against the French recently.
The last three meetings between the the teams have all been decided by three or four points, while the Scots - who won in Paris in 2021 - were in contention for victory on their last Six Nations trip to the French capital two years ago, until the hosts scored late to seal a 32-21 win.
"From our perspective, we've played well in the (France) games," said Townsend. "We've had to recover at times from two red cards in the last two or three games against them.
"One, we got back into position two years ago at Stade de France to really put them under pressure (in the 2023 Six Nations) and then a World Cup warm-up game (at Murrayfield) to come back and win with 14 men.
"We've gone well in this fixture, our players are a quality group, they thrive in that atmosphere. They thrive with the challenge and this is what we're asking them to do again this weekend."
Still a little while yet before France and Scotland begin their preparations in earnest for tonight, which might allow the hosts particularly to have half-an-eye on events in Cardiff. Kick off is imminent under the roof as England look to put the pressure on and Wales attempt to end their long losing run...
Wales vs England LIVE: Latest build-up and updates from Six Nations
Fabien Galthie has urged his side to fulfil their ambitions as France bid to handle the pressure with a title within reach.
"Basically, nothing has changed since the win in Ireland. We've had the same dynamic for the last six years, we've had great successes and losses that hurt," Galthie told a press conference on Thursday.
"We're still committed to developing our players and being ambitious. We have great ambition and high standards to take the French team to the top no matter what happens.
"Last weekend's result made that a reality but our challenge this weekend calls that achievement into question."
France fly-half Romain Ntamack feels it is "totally incomprehensible" that the terms of his suspension differed to the sanction handed to Ireland centre Garry Ringrose.
Ntamack returned to action in Les Bleus' 42-27 victory in Dublin last weekend after missing two Six Nations matches following his red card in the round-one win over Wales.
Ringrose was available to feature in Ireland's championship finale away to Italy today having sat out only one Test match - Ireland's defeat to France - as punishment for his dismissal against the Welsh.
While Ringrose was permitted to count a Leinster fixture as part of his ban, Toulouse playmaker Ntamanck was unable to include a club match in his punishment.
"There is an injustice here, because I believe our case was also based around how one of the matches in my suspension I would play for Toulouse," the 25-year-old said ahead of Saturday's game against Scotland.
"And when 10 days later the complete opposite (for Ringrose) is decided in contrast to what the commission told me that is in every shape and form totally incomprehensible.
"I think we must start pounding our fist on the table because it is time these decisions going against us and costing us dearly stop."
The Six Nations will remain on free-to-air television in the United Kingdom after ITV and BBC agreed a new deal to show the competition through to 2029.
The rights in the United Kingdom had been up for grabs at the end of the broadcasters’ existing agreement, which concludes after this tournament
It was feared that parts of the championship would go behind a paywall with TNT Sports declaring interest in bidding, though the subscription channel cautioned that a “challenging” landscape would make it difficult to capture the competition.
And it has now been confirmed that the terrestrial broadcasters have again struck a deal to show the men’s competition over the next four years.
BBC and ITV secure new Six Nations deal
Finn Russell challenged Scotland to add some sheen to their Guinness Six Nations campaign in Paris as he lamented the fact they have only a “disruptor” role to play in this weekend’s three-way shootout for the title.
The Scots are set to end the championship as also-rans once more after their home defeat by Ireland on match-day two was followed by an agonising 16-15 loss away to England, in which Russell missed all three of his conversion attempts, including a last-minute kick that would have won the Calcutta Cup.
With just two home wins over Italy and Wales to their name, co-captain Russell believes a rare away victory over title-chasing France would go a long way to enhancing how their hitherto underwhelming campaign was viewed by the Scottish public.
Finn Russell urges Scotland to add some sheen to Six Nations campaign in Paris
Scotland wing Darcy Graham declared himself “very lucky” to have been able to return and continue his participation in this year’s Six Nations after his “nasty” accident in last month’s defeat by Ireland.
The 27-year-old was taken to hospital after becoming unconscious following a sickening clash with team-mate Finn Russell in the first half against Ireland at Murrayfield on February 9.
Graham’s injuries turned out not to be as bad as first feared and after sitting out the Calcutta Cup defeat against England, he was back on the pitch on Saturday and scored the 30th Test try of his career in Scotland’s 35-29 home victory over Wales.
Darcy Graham ‘very lucky’ to be back in action after avoiding serious injury
It’s a seven/one bench again for France, the power-packed unit ever more en vogue in the international game. But not all are fans of the tactic - including Scotland boss Gregor Townsend...
The bold call that paid off for France against Ireland – and why it is controversial
With the action just getting underway in Rome, here are all the permutations you need to know on what could be a wild day of Six Nations action:
Six Nations title permutations: What France, England and Ireland need to lift trophy
France have brought in centre Gael Fickou and scrum half Maxime Lucu for the injured Antoine Dupont in two changes from the team that crushed Ireland to face Scotland in Saturday's Six Nations finale at the Stade de France.
Dupont ruptured anterior cruciate ligaments after his knee buckled under pressure from the Irish defence at the back of a ruck, while Fickou has been called up by head coach Fabian Galthie after Pierre-Louis Barassi suffered a concussion at the Aviva Stadium. The 30-year-old Fickou has not appeared in the Six Nations this year after he fractured his thumb playing for club side Racing 92 earlier in the season.
Gael Fickou returns as France and Scotland name teams for Six Nations decider
Here we are, then, the final fixture of this year’s Six Nations. A title is within reach for France after seizing control of their own destiny last weekend - but can a Scottish side that has a habit of surprising their hosts do England and Ireland a favour?
Kick off in Paris is at 8pm GMT.
Continue reading...
Fabien Galthie’s side ensured that their fate was in their own hands with their dismantling of Ireland last weekend, seizing control of the Six Nations. A win here of any kind will be enough to secure the crown, although Ireland and England put the pressure on with victories of their own earlier on “Super Saturday”.
The hosts embark without their skipper after Antoine Dupont suffered a serious knee injury in Dublin, but Galthie again sticks with the power-packed bench that caused such havoc seven days ago.
Standing between the French and the title are Scotland, looking for a positive finish to a disappointing campaign. Hopes of a title challenge did not materialise for Gregor Townsend’s men after their run of Calcutta Cup dominance came to an end, and the Scots threatened to throw away a strong lead against Wales in the penultimate round, too. A positive finish would help build optimism for the future, though, and prove again that Townsend is the right man to lead Scotland forward.
Follow all of the latest from the Stade de France in our live blog below:
France vs Scotland LIVE
- France take on Scotland in the final fixture of the Six Nations | Live on ITV
- Les Bleus will be crowned champions with a win of any kind
- Ireland beat Italy and England thrash Wales earlier on Super Saturday to increase the pressure on Les Bleus
- Gregor Townsend's visitors are seeking a winning finish to a disappointing campaign
Try! France 13-10 Scotland, 28 minutes
20:37 , Ciara FearnPeato Mauvaka's card remains yellow. Meanwhile, Scotland have found the key!
They are back in the game. Darcy Graham secures the try and Russell converts. Scotland are back within three.
France 13-3 Scotland, 25 minutes
20:33 , Ciara FearnLucu sends a grubber kick towards the try-line and looks ready to score, but Ben White makes a brilliant recovery, diving back to beat Lucu to the ball and deny the try.
France now have a scrum just five metres from the line, presenting another strong attacking chance.
France win a penalty and Scotland are penalised for being offside. France opt to take the three points with Ramos' kick from right in front.
France 10-3 Scotland, 21 minutes
20:30 , Ciara FearnFinn Russell strikes true from the tee, putting Scotland on the scoreboard.
A crucial start. Ritchie is back on for Scotland, and they need him here as the French go in search for their second try.
France 10-0 Scotland, 20 minutes
20:29Scotland win a penalty in the French 22 but play it too quickly, allowing Alldritt to win a penalty for France after pouncing on an isolated ball carrier.
A yellow-card is given to France hooker Peato Mauvaka. He appears to make contact with Ben White’s face while on the ground. The incident will be reviewed.
Try! France 10-0 Scotland, 17 minutes
20:22 , Ciara FearnFrance get the first try! Yoram Moefana scores under the posts following Fickou's clever step and pass.
Ramos successfully converts..
France 3-0 Scotland, 15 minutes
20:20Scotland concede another penalty, this time at the lineout. Finn Russell looks to argue with the referee Matthew Carley but he is swiftly dismissed. France have opted for the corner.
France 3-0 Scotland, 11 minutes
20:16Scotland make good ground into the French 22, but Graham spills the ball, allowing France to counter.
Ntamack charges to halfway, attempts a solo run, but is tackled and the move breaks down with a French knock-on.
Penalty follows, a tough call against Scotland as Ritchie seems to have possession at the breakdown, yet is penalised. France are awarded some easy metres. Huge problem for Scotland here, now they are down a man.
Ritchie gets a yellow-card and he’s off.
France 3-0 Scotland, 8 minutes
20:11 , Ciara FearnGreat carrying here from Scotland, they are searching for that energy and drive.
Matt Fagerson earns Scotland a penalty at the breakdown, giving them a chance to regroup and gain some ground.
Penalty! France 3-0 Scotland, 4 minutes
20:08 , Ciara FearnA big tackle from France winger Penaud. France look threatening with the ball early on, but Scotland holds firm defensively, with Russell eventually forcing Flament into touch.
France are awarded a penalty after Scotland commit an infringement at the maul. Ramos steps up to take a shot to secure points on the board already.
Kick-off! France 0-0 Scotland
20:03 , Ciara FearnFrance kick things off this evening in Paris.
We’re quickly underway!
Kick-off drawing near
19:59A formidable venue and light show as the anthems begin. Scotland are up first.
We are just moments away from kick-off now.
Scotland coach Gregor Townsend told ITV Sport:
19:49 , Ciara FearnITV asks Gregor Townsend how Scotland intends to handle France's formidable seven-forward bench line-up.
"We went against something similar when we played South Africa in November.
“It's a mental challenge as well as a physical one to say, ok seven fresh forwards, but they've got to get up to the speed of the game we are playing and we have players who can come on too."
France defence coach Shaun Edwards told ITV Sport:
19:46 , Ciara Fearn"We're under no illusions it will not be in any way easy. Scotland have been our bogey team the past four or five years.”
On the absence of Antoine Dupont, he adds: "We want to win it for Antoine. If it happens, I'm sure he'll be up there lifting the trophy with Greg Alldritt."
Making individual history
19:41 , Ciara FearnLouis Bielle-Biarrey is on the verge of making individual history. With seven tries to his name, he is currently tied for the most tries in a single Six Nations campaign. One more would see him claim the top spot outright.
Can he add to his tally tonight?
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Past encounters
19:35 , Ciara FearnFrance have dominated their Six Nations encounters with Scotland, winning 20 of their last 25 meetings, while Scotland have claimed victory in just five.
When playing in France, Scotland have struggled, securing only one win in 12 attempts, back in 2021.
Scotland have made the most carries in the tournament and will look to involve their backs. Expect a predominantly physical approach from them. Although Scotland have lost their last three Six Nations away matches, the margin has been small.
Six Nations permutations: What England need to win the title ahead of France finale
19:30 , Harry Latham-CoyleEngland’s thrashing of Wales makes the permutations rather simpler this evening. Here are the mathematics you need to know:
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What England need to win the Six Nations ahead of France finale
Finn Russell urges Scotland to add some sheen to Six Nations campaign in Paris
19:25 , Harry Latham-CoyleFinn Russell challenged Scotland to add some sheen to their Guinness Six Nations campaign in Paris as he lamented the fact they have only a “disruptor” role to play in this weekend’s three-way shootout for the title.
The Scots are set to end the championship as also-rans once more after their home defeat by Ireland on match-day two was followed by an agonising 16-15 loss away to England, in which Russell missed all three of his conversion attempts, including a last-minute kick that would have won the Calcutta Cup.
With just two home wins over Italy and Wales to their name, co-captain Russell believes a rare away victory over title-chasing France would go a long way to enhancing how their hitherto underwhelming campaign was viewed by the Scottish public.
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Finn Russell urges Scotland to add some sheen to Six Nations campaign in Paris
The bold call that paid off for France against Ireland – and why it is controversial
19:15 , Harry Latham-CoyleIt’s a seven/one bench again for France, the power-packed unit ever more en vogue in the international game. But not all are fans of the tactic - including Scotland boss Gregor Townsend...
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The bold call that paid off for France against Ireland – and why it is controversial
Scotland team news
19:05 , Harry Latham-CoyleScotland make two changes in their pack with Gregor Brown given a first Six Nations start in the second row, and Matt Fagerson returning at No 8 after an injury to Jack Dempsey. The backline remains intact from the one that beat Wales, with all seven starters perhaps hoping to further their British and Irish Lions case with a strong tournament finish.
Scotland XV: 1 Pierre Schoeman, 2 Dave Cherry, 3 Zander Fagerson; 4 Gregor Brown, 5 Grant Gilchrist; 6 Jamie Ritchie, 7 Rory Darge (co-capt.), 8 Matt Fagerson; 9 Ben White, 10 Finn Russell (co-capt.); 11 Duhan van der Merwe, 12 Tom Jordan, 13 Huw Jones, 14 Darcy Graham; 15 Blair Kinghorn.
Replacements: 16 Ewan Ashman, 17 Rory Sutherland, 18 Will Hurd, 19 Ewan Johnson, 20 Marshall Sykes, 21 Ben Muncaster; 22 Jamie Dobie, 23 Stafford McDowall.
France team news
19:00 , Harry Latham-CoyleFrance are able to call upon Gael Fickou for the first time this tournament with the veteran centre filling the vacancy left by Pierre-Louis Barassi, who is out after a concussion. Maxime Lucu swaps in for Antoine Dupont after the scrum half’s cruciate ligament injury as Gregory Alldritt assumes the captaincy. It is again seven forwards on the bench after such a decisive impact against Ireland.
France XV: 1 Jean-Baptiste Gros, 2 Peato Mauvaka, 3 Uini Atonio; 4 Thibaud Flament, 5 Mickael Guillard; 6 Francois Cros, 7 Paul Boudehent, 8 Gregory Alldritt (capt); 9 Maxime Lucu, 10 Romain Ntamack; 11 Louis Bielle-Biarrey, 12 Yoram Moefana, 13 Gael Fickou, 14 Damian Penaud; 15 Thomas Ramos.
Replacements: 16 Julien Marchand, 17 Cyril Baille, 18 Dorian Aldegheri, 19 Hugo Auradou, 20 Emmanuel Meafou, 21 Oscar Jegou, 22 Anthony Jelonch; 23 Nolann Le Garrec.
France vs Scotland talking points: A chance for Gregor Brown
18:45 , Harry Latham-CoyleGregor Brown is the most notable inclusion in a largely familiar Scotland XV as Townsend looks to inject some fresh energy and dynamism into his pack. The 23-year-old Glasgow forward – a hybrid lock-flanker – will start in the second row after getting the nod over the experienced Jonny Gray. Brown has acquitted himself well since making his debut on last summer’s tour of the Americas and has started against Canada, Chile and Uruguay, but starting his first Six Nations match in Paris against the swashbuckling champions-elect represents comfortably the biggest challenge of his career to date.
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France vs Scotland talking points: Reasons for optimism
18:30 , Harry Latham-CoyleDespite the formidable challenge facing them, Scotland are entitled to take heart from their recent form against France. Each of the last three meetings between the sides – last year’s Six Nations clash at Murrayfield and the two World Cup warm-up matches in August 2023 – were settled by just three or four points. Prior to that, Scotland competed well in their last Six Nations match in Paris two years ago and were well in the hunt until the hosts scored late to seal a 32-21 victory, while Townsend’s men enjoyed a rare success in the French capital in 2021, albeit behind closed doors. In short, they generally hold their own in France.
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France vs Scotland talking points: Can Scots finish with a flourish?
18:15 , Harry Latham-CoyleScotland are out of title contention and even a win may not be enough to help them avoid another bottom-half finish. Their two wins came at home to Italy and Wales, the two weakest sides in the championship, but even then they made heavy weather of both matches. After back-to-back defeats against Ireland and England ruled them out of the equation for silverware and brought fresh debate about Gregor Townsend’s ability to move the team forward, the Scots could desperately do with – if not a victory – at least a rousing performance in Paris to emerge from a hitherto underwhelming campaign with some credit in the bank.
France vs Scotland talking points: No Dupont, no problem?
18:00 , Harry Latham-CoyleFrance go into their night of destiny without talismanic captain Antoine Dupont after he suffered an ACL injury in Dublin last week. While they would prefer to have him on the pitch for their big night, they can draw some solace from the fact they had to adapt to being without him throughout last year’s campaign and also for a small part of the 2023 World Cup. Les Bleus can call on a pretty handy replacement in Bordeaux’s Maxime Lucu, and their depth of options to cover for Dupont is highlighted by the fact their fourth-choice scrum-half Baptiste Serin is currently ahead of Scotland starter Ben White in the Toulon pecking order.
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France vs Scotland talking points: French eyes on the prize
17:45 , Harry Latham-CoyleA partisan atmosphere awaits the Scots, with an expectant French crowd hoping to see their side claim the victory that will secure a first Six Nations title since 2022 and only a second championship triumph since 2010. A win for the visitors would pave the way for England or Ireland – who both play earlier in the day – to claim the honours, but Les Bleus have been in scintillating form for much of the tournament and will be confident of seizing their big chance under the Saturday-night lights at a packed Stade de France.
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Gregory Alldritt urges France to seize the moment
17:20 , Harry Latham-CoyleGregory Alldritt has urged France to make their mark on history by closing out Six Nations glory against Scotland in Paris.
The Stade de France will be packed with expectant Les Bleus supporters for the championship finale, with the hosts knowing victory will secure their first title since 2022 and only their second triumph since 2010.
"There's a lot of excitement, it matters to all of us," said La Rochelle back-rower Alldritt, who will captain the side in the absence of Antoine Dupont, who suffered an ACL injury against Ireland last weekend.
"We're all motivated and we all can't wait for tomorrow night. It has been a formidable Six Nations so far.
“A title would be a further step for us, there's nothing mundane in that. Lifting a title, leaving your mark on history, seeing family members smiling in the crowds, making them proud are unforgettable moments. That's what you play for.
"Our visit to Invalides (war veteran museum and residency) strengthened that, speaking to those war veterans they said they are sensitive to our results. It adds a little more desire to what we do in the week and why we wear the shirt on the weekend."
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Gregor Townsend confident Scotland can match France
17:00 , Harry Latham-CoyleGregor Townsend believes Scotland have shown enough quality against France in recent seasons to go to Paris with optimism for tonight’s Six Nations finale.
The Scots face what their head coach described as "probably the biggest challenge in world rugby right now" as they bid to stop Les Bleus landing the victory they are likely to require to seal a first title since 2022 at Stade de France.
However, Townsend is heartened by the way his team have performed against the French recently.
The last three meetings between the the teams have all been decided by three or four points, while the Scots - who won in Paris in 2021 - were in contention for victory on their last Six Nations trip to the French capital two years ago, until the hosts scored late to seal a 32-21 win.
"From our perspective, we've played well in the (France) games," said Townsend. "We've had to recover at times from two red cards in the last two or three games against them.
"One, we got back into position two years ago at Stade de France to really put them under pressure (in the 2023 Six Nations) and then a World Cup warm-up game (at Murrayfield) to come back and win with 14 men.
"We've gone well in this fixture, our players are a quality group, they thrive in that atmosphere. They thrive with the challenge and this is what we're asking them to do again this weekend."
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Six Nations Super Saturday rolls on
16:40 , Harry Latham-CoyleStill a little while yet before France and Scotland begin their preparations in earnest for tonight, which might allow the hosts particularly to have half-an-eye on events in Cardiff. Kick off is imminent under the roof as England look to put the pressure on and Wales attempt to end their long losing run...
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Wales vs England LIVE: Latest build-up and updates from Six Nations
Fabien Galthie urges France to keep focus with title on the line
16:20 , Harry Latham-CoyleFabien Galthie has urged his side to fulfil their ambitions as France bid to handle the pressure with a title within reach.
"Basically, nothing has changed since the win in Ireland. We've had the same dynamic for the last six years, we've had great successes and losses that hurt," Galthie told a press conference on Thursday.
"We're still committed to developing our players and being ambitious. We have great ambition and high standards to take the French team to the top no matter what happens.
"Last weekend's result made that a reality but our challenge this weekend calls that achievement into question."
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Romain Ntamack hits out at Six Nations double standards over ban
16:00 , Harry Latham-CoyleFrance fly-half Romain Ntamack feels it is "totally incomprehensible" that the terms of his suspension differed to the sanction handed to Ireland centre Garry Ringrose.
Ntamack returned to action in Les Bleus' 42-27 victory in Dublin last weekend after missing two Six Nations matches following his red card in the round-one win over Wales.
Ringrose was available to feature in Ireland's championship finale away to Italy today having sat out only one Test match - Ireland's defeat to France - as punishment for his dismissal against the Welsh.
While Ringrose was permitted to count a Leinster fixture as part of his ban, Toulouse playmaker Ntamanck was unable to include a club match in his punishment.
"There is an injustice here, because I believe our case was also based around how one of the matches in my suspension I would play for Toulouse," the 25-year-old said ahead of Saturday's game against Scotland.
"And when 10 days later the complete opposite (for Ringrose) is decided in contrast to what the commission told me that is in every shape and form totally incomprehensible.
"I think we must start pounding our fist on the table because it is time these decisions going against us and costing us dearly stop."
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BBC and ITV secure new Six Nations deal to keep championship on free-to-air television
15:40 , Harry Latham-CoyleThe Six Nations will remain on free-to-air television in the United Kingdom after ITV and BBC agreed a new deal to show the competition through to 2029.
The rights in the United Kingdom had been up for grabs at the end of the broadcasters’ existing agreement, which concludes after this tournament
It was feared that parts of the championship would go behind a paywall with TNT Sports declaring interest in bidding, though the subscription channel cautioned that a “challenging” landscape would make it difficult to capture the competition.
And it has now been confirmed that the terrestrial broadcasters have again struck a deal to show the men’s competition over the next four years.
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BBC and ITV secure new Six Nations deal
Finn Russell urges Scotland to add some sheen to Six Nations campaign in Paris
15:20 , Harry Latham-CoyleFinn Russell challenged Scotland to add some sheen to their Guinness Six Nations campaign in Paris as he lamented the fact they have only a “disruptor” role to play in this weekend’s three-way shootout for the title.
The Scots are set to end the championship as also-rans once more after their home defeat by Ireland on match-day two was followed by an agonising 16-15 loss away to England, in which Russell missed all three of his conversion attempts, including a last-minute kick that would have won the Calcutta Cup.
With just two home wins over Italy and Wales to their name, co-captain Russell believes a rare away victory over title-chasing France would go a long way to enhancing how their hitherto underwhelming campaign was viewed by the Scottish public.
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Finn Russell urges Scotland to add some sheen to Six Nations campaign in Paris
Darcy Graham ‘very lucky’ to be back in action after avoiding serious injury
15:00 , Harry Latham-CoyleScotland wing Darcy Graham declared himself “very lucky” to have been able to return and continue his participation in this year’s Six Nations after his “nasty” accident in last month’s defeat by Ireland.
The 27-year-old was taken to hospital after becoming unconscious following a sickening clash with team-mate Finn Russell in the first half against Ireland at Murrayfield on February 9.
Graham’s injuries turned out not to be as bad as first feared and after sitting out the Calcutta Cup defeat against England, he was back on the pitch on Saturday and scored the 30th Test try of his career in Scotland’s 35-29 home victory over Wales.
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Darcy Graham ‘very lucky’ to be back in action after avoiding serious injury
The bold call that paid off for France against Ireland – and why it is controversial
14:40 , Harry Latham-CoyleIt’s a seven/one bench again for France, the power-packed unit ever more en vogue in the international game. But not all are fans of the tactic - including Scotland boss Gregor Townsend...
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The bold call that paid off for France against Ireland – and why it is controversial
Six Nations permutations
14:20 , Harry Latham-CoyleWith the action just getting underway in Rome, here are all the permutations you need to know on what could be a wild day of Six Nations action:
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Six Nations title permutations: What France, England and Ireland need to lift trophy
Gael Fickou comes in from the cold as France and Scotland name teams for Six Nations decider
14:05 , Harry Latham-CoyleFrance have brought in centre Gael Fickou and scrum half Maxime Lucu for the injured Antoine Dupont in two changes from the team that crushed Ireland to face Scotland in Saturday's Six Nations finale at the Stade de France.
Dupont ruptured anterior cruciate ligaments after his knee buckled under pressure from the Irish defence at the back of a ruck, while Fickou has been called up by head coach Fabian Galthie after Pierre-Louis Barassi suffered a concussion at the Aviva Stadium. The 30-year-old Fickou has not appeared in the Six Nations this year after he fractured his thumb playing for club side Racing 92 earlier in the season.
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Gael Fickou returns as France and Scotland name teams for Six Nations decider
France vs Scotland LIVE
07:36 , Harry Latham-CoyleHere we are, then, the final fixture of this year’s Six Nations. A title is within reach for France after seizing control of their own destiny last weekend - but can a Scottish side that has a habit of surprising their hosts do England and Ireland a favour?
Kick off in Paris is at 8pm GMT.
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