Tuipulotu retains Scotland place vs France

Scotland coach Gregor Townsend has rung the changes, but Australian recruit Sione Tuipulotu has retained his place in their starting line-up to face Six Nations favourites France.

Following the Scots' 20-17 defeat by Wales, Townsend has responded by giving flanker Rory Darge his first Test start among four changes - all in the pack - for Saturday's match.

But Melbourne's former Rebel Tuipulotu, who qualifies through his Scottish grandmother and made his first Six Nations start against the Welsh, has retained his spot at centre and will win his fourth cap.

Darge, who turned 22 on Wednesday, made his debut off the bench against Wales after stand-out performances for Glasgow.

Magnus Bradbury, off the bench in both Scotland matches this month, will make his first Test start since 2020 at No.8 in place of Matt Fagerson.

Darge is in for Sam Skinner, who has moved to lock in place of the injured Jonny Gray.

Zander Fagerson comes in at tighthead for WP Nel, who's among the reserves.

Scotland need a third straight win over France to stay in title contention but Les Bleus look to be the tournament favourites after two straight wins.

They've recalled centre Jonathan Danty as their only change. He missed the win over Ireland through injury, but slots back into the midfield alongside Gael Kickou and in place of Yoram Moefana.

But Moefana stays in coach Fabien Galthie's team to replace the injured Gabin Villiere on the left wing. Moefana has already played in that position for club side Bordeaux-Begles.

The reserves were also unchanged from the side which beat Ireland 30-24 in a classic, with a 6-2 split between forwards and backs.

Having opened with a 37-10 win against Italy, France are the only unbeaten side.

Teams:

Scotland: Stuart