Moody Misses Out as Sheridan Returns

Sale’s Andrew Sheridan’s inclusion is the only change to Martin Johnson’s team ahead of their crucial 6 Nations clash against France on Saturday. The prop missed out on England’s 59-13 demolition of Italy two weeks ago with a back injury, but proved his fitness after playing 70 minutes for his club side last weekend and replaces London Irish’s Alex Corbisiero, who drops to the bench.

England captain Lewis Moody had targeted the pivotal game against France for his return from injury, but his injured knee reacted badly after he played only 23 minutes for Bath against Northampton on Saturday, meaning he misses the game. Mike Tindall will continue to captain the side. Sports betting pundits will likely believe his return to the international team will come against Scotland next month.

Both teams remain unbeaten so far in the tournament, and French forward Bruno Chabal has labelled the game as the “decider” of the tournament.

France began their tournament in spectacular fashion, easily beating Scotland 34-21, before struggling to victory against Ireland. Despite being outscored three tries to one, France went on to take the game 25-22, to set up a winner-takes-all game against England, who battled past Wales before their rout against Italy.

Rumours had surfaced earlier in the week that Jonny Wilkinson would be included in the team at fly-half, with the in-form Toby Flood moving to inside centre, but Johnson has resisted the temptation to make changes as he looks for his first win over France since 2009.

Earlier in the week France head coach Marc Lievremont started a war of words with England after claiming he and the other 6 Nations sides “do not like”” England. Martin Johnson laughed off the remarks, but will be eager to silence the French camp and claim their first Grand Slam since 2003.