Steve Borthwick has named just one change to his England squad as they prepare for a "huge challenge" against France in the Six Nations.

Ollie Chessum replaces the injured Tom Curry from England's humbling defeat to Italy last weekend; it was the first time England had ever lost to Italy in men's Test rugby (W32 L1).

England have lost each of their last three men's Six Nations matches and could finish an edition with four defeats for the first time since Italy joined the Championship in 2000, and just the third time overall (also 1972 and 1976).

England's hopes of defeating France, who could all but guarantee winning the 2026 Six Nations with a bonus point in Paris, are slim.

France have won their last four home games against England in the men's Six Nations, with the latter's last win across the Channel coming in 2016; Les Bleus have never won five in a row at home to England in the Five or Six Nations.

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

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

The final round 

Steve Borthwick has named his match day squad to face France this Saturday.@O2 | #WearTheRose

— England Rugby (@EnglandRugby) March 10, 2026

Borthwick also spoke on Sam Underhill and Marcus Smith, both of whom are set to win their 50th England cap from the bench.

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

"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 team to face France

Starting XV: Elliot Daly, Tom Roebuck, Tommy Freeman, Seb Atkinson, Cadan Murley, Fin Smith, Ben Spencer; Ellis Genge, Jamie George, Joe Heyes, Maro Itoje, Alex Coles, Ollie Chessum, Guy Pepper, Ben Earl.

Replacements: Luke Cowan-Dickie, Bevan Rodd, Trevor Davison, Chandler Cunningham-South, Sam Underhill, Henry Pollock, Jack van Poortvliet, Marcus Smith.