England have made only one change to their starting XV for Saturday's Six Nations clash against France in Paris, with Ollie Chessum coming in at blindside flanker. Head coach Steve Borthwick has kept faith with the backline that struggled in the 23-18 defeat to Italy, with Fin Smith retaining the fly-half berth.
Chessum replaces Sam Underhill, who drops to the bench, while Guy Pepper moves to openside. The change bolsters England's lineout and pack weight against France's formidable forwards. Chessum, primarily a second-row, last started at blindside in the 2024 Six Nations.
England face the prospect of their worst-ever Six Nations finish if they lose, having only beaten Wales so far. A defeat would leave them with one victory, a record low. Underhill and Marcus Smith are both poised to win their 50th caps from the bench.
Borthwick is under pressure after the historic loss to Italy, but received a vote of confidence from the RFU. However, chief executive Bill Sweeney's statement did not guarantee his position until the 2027 World Cup, suggesting the summer tour will be pivotal for his future.
