Match Preview: England vs France – Six Nations

England captain Owen Farrell has been dropped by Steve Borthwick ahead of their game against France in Twickenham.

England hope to maintain their winning ways as they host France in Twickenham, but will have to do it without Saracens fly-half and England captain Owen Farrell who’s been dropped to the bench by Steve Borthwick.

Farrell, who’s started every game under Borthwick since he took over from Eddie Jones isn’t among the starting 15 with Marcus Smith being named at fly-half.

Borthwick has come out and backed his decision to drop his captain saying “As I always do, I went through the game plan that we wish to play, the specific tactics we wish to play, the opponents and the strengths they have, and for this game I’ve decided to make this selection.”

Loosehead prop Ellis Genge will captain the side vs France with vice-captain Courtney Laws withdrawing from the squad due to injury.

England team to face France:

1. Ellis Genge (C)
2. Jamie George
3. Kyle Sinckler
4. Mario Itoje
5. Ollie Chessum
6. Lewis Ludlam
7. Jack Willis
8. Alex Dombrandt
9. Jack Van Poortvliet
10. Marcus Smith
11. Anthony Watson
12. Ollie Lawrence
13. Henry Slade
14. Max Malins
15. Freddie Steward

Subs: 16. Jack Walker, 17. Mako Vunipola, 18. Dan Cole, 19. David Ribbans, 20. Ben Curry, 21. Alex Mitchell, Owen Farrell, 23. Henry Arundell.