Yachvili replaces Elissalde in French squad

France coach Bernard Laporte has announced his 22-man squad ahead of their final two RBS 6 Nations clashes with Scotland and England with scrum-half Dimitri Yachvili replacing the injured Jean-Baptiste Elissalde.

Laporte has also recalled Pepito Elhorga, who missed out on the win over Wales with a right leg injury, as well as Clement Poitrenaud, who features for the first time this year and fly-half Julien Peyrelongue, who replaced Frederic Michalak against Italy.

The 26-year-old Elissalde has been an inspirational scrum-half for Les Bleus in their wins over Ireland, Italy and Wales, but a serious injury to his left thigh on Sunday has ended his season.

“This is very hard for Elissalde and for us,” said Laporte.

“He has performed extremely well in his first three matches. We hope he will be back on track soon.”

Yachvili appeared the logical replacement for him after his performances at the World Cup in Australia last year.

“Dimitri was at the World Cup with us, he replaced Fabien Galthie, and we know he will be eager to show his potential,” added Laporte.

“He is extremely motivated and we trust him.”

France are firm favourites for the Grand Slam after their three wins, while England, the world and Six Nations defending champions, lost to Ireland at Twickenham at the weekend.