Ollie Chessum starts as England face France

England have made just one change to their starting side for the final Six Nations match against France, with Ollie Chessum coming into the team as Steve Borthwick resists another major reshuffle after the defeat to Italy.

Ollie Chessum Starts For England Against France

Chessum has been selected at blindside flanker for Saturday’s match in Paris, replacing Sam Underhill in the starting XV. Underhill moves to the bench and is in line to win his 50th England cap if he takes the field.

Marcus Smith is also set for his 50th cap from the replacements bench. Borthwick has otherwise retained the same starting side that lost to Italy, opting for continuity despite England’s difficult run in the championship.

England Keep Faith With Italy Lineup

The decision marks a contrast to the major changes made before the Italy game, when England altered nine starting positions following defeats to Scotland and Ireland. This time, the coaching staff have largely kept faith with the side that started in Rome.

England began the championship with a win over Wales but have since suffered three consecutive defeats. The loss to Italy was particularly damaging, leaving Borthwick’s side under pressure heading into the final round.

"It's a huge challenge under the lights in Paris against a very strong France side," said Borthwick.

"England vs France is one of the great rivalries in international rugby and we're looking forward to the occasion.

"Reaching 50 caps is a special achievement and a reflection of the consistency both Sam and Marcus have shown in an England shirt.

"They have both worked extremely hard for this milestone and it's a credit to them and the people who have supported them along the way."

England XV: 15 Elliot Daly, 14 Tom Roebuck, 13 Tommy Freeman, 12 Seb Atkinson, 11 Cadan Murley, 10 Fin Smith, 9 Ben Spencer, 8 Ben Earl, 7 Guy Pepper, 6 Ollie Chessum, 5 Alex Coles, 4 Maro Itoje (c), 3 Joe Heyes, 2 Jamie George, 1 Ellis Genge

Reserves: 16 Luke Cowan-Dickie, 17 Bevan Rodd, 18 Trevor Davison, 19 Chandler Cunningham-South, 20 Sam Underhill, 21 Henry Pollock, 22 Jack van Poortvliet, 23 Marcus Smith