New France coach Guy Noves explains Mathieu Bastareaud's absence from squad

Bastareaud, 27, has won 39 caps since his debut against Wales in 2009, and has scored three international tries.

New France coach Guy Noves has explained Mathieu Bastareaud’s absence from his first squad gathering by saying he aims to bring a new style to Les Bleus.

The powerhouse Toulon centre was a surprise absentee from a list of 30 names announced last week to work with Noves and his staff on Monday.