Northampton 9 Racing 92 9: Northampton’s England contingent failed to make an impression as Eddie Jones resumed his busy pre-Christmas scouting tour of the Aviva Premiership clubs last night.

England head coach Stuart Lancaster will stand or fall on the decision to drop Danny Cipriani from his final squad of 31 for the World Cup, which will be announced today.

Anthony Watson scored two tries and Jonny May also crossed as England opened preparations for the World Cup with an edgy 19-14 victory over France at Twickenham.

England have recalled lock Courtney Lawes and full-back Mike Brown for Saturday’s RBS 6 Nations clash with Scotland.

England have made the first changes of their 2015 RBS 6 Nations campaign after naming Alex Goode and Jack Nowell in their starting XV to face Ireland on Sunday.

Jack McGrath has apologised to Rory Best for a stamp which earned him a three-week ban earlier this month.

Ireland captain Paul O’Connell believes England still boast the strongest scrum in the RBS 6 Nations, even with a mini injury crisis at prop.

Defeated Aviva Premiership finalists Leicester have boosted their ranks ahead of next season with a trio of signings.

Ireland have announced the U-18 club squad to play England in the FIRA-AER U-18 European Championship today.

Ireland 53 Russia 0