Le Crunch returns to Twickenham this week as England host France in what promises to be a blockbuster clash.
France, who started their campaign in sensational fashion against Wales last week, will have fond memories from their last trip to London, when they thrashed England 53-10.
Last week’s loss in Dublin means England are in dire need of a win to get their tournament going.
Here is everything you need to know about Saturday’s clash.
Key details:
When: Saturday, Feb. 8 at 4.45 p.m. UK
Where: Allianz Stadium, Twickenham
How to watch: You can wach live on the ITV (UK). You can also follow along with live updates on ESPN.
Officials: Referee: Nika Amashukeli (Geo)
Assistant Referees: Andrea Piardi (Ita) & Damian Schneider (Arg)
Television Match Official: Marius van der Westhuizen (SA)
Lineups:
England: To be announced.
Replacements:
France: To be announced.
Replacements:
Team news:
England: While Steve Borthwick is set to name his side on Thursday, sources have told ESPN that Fin Smith is set to start at fly-half, with Marcus Smith moving to fullback against France.
Winger Cadan Murley has been ruled out of at least the next two weeks with a foot injury, with Saracens centre Alex Lozowski called into the squad. Hooker Jamie George has also returned to the squad after overcoming a hamstring injury.
France: Fly-half Romain Ntamack is almost certain to miss the trip to Twickenham after being awarded a red card for a dangerous tackle against Wales. Matthieu Jalibert or Thomas Ramos could replace the No. 10.
Information from Reuters contributed to the team news of this report.
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