Mathieu Bastareaud back for France's grand slam bid
Mathieu Bastareaud regains place in French XV for Six Nations finale against England as David Marty misses out
Tuesday, 16, Mar 2010 03:26
By Matthew Champion.
Mathieu Bastareaud has won his place back in Marc Lievremont's France XV as the les Bleus bid for their first Six Nations grand slam in six years.
The 21-year-old did not start the 46-20 win over Italy in Paris last week due to a calf injury but did come on as a late substitute.
He regains his place at the expense of the unfortunate David Marty despite the Perpignan centre scoring two tries in the Italians' defeat.
Lievremont said Stade Francais centre Bastareaud deserved his place in the England match based on his impressive performances in victories over Scotland, Ireland and Wales.
"David [Marty] had a great display [against Italy] but we don't forget Mathieu's very good matches at the beginning of the tournament," he said.
"To have David on the bench is comforting. He will be able to add his punch during the match."
Bastareaud is the only change to the French XV, with Lievremont keeping faith with the relatively untested Julien Pierre at lock ahead of the iconic Sebastien Chabal.
The French are looking to end a three-year winless run against England when they host Martin Johnson's team in Paris on Saturday evening.
Unbeaten France could still secure the Six Nations crown with a defeat, with Ireland needing to thrash Scotland at Croke Park to have any hope of winning the tournament.