Galthie swings the axe on Penaud and Jalibert as French look to get back on track in Rome

The decision came after Les Tricolores made sloppy handling errors and missed tackles in a 26-25 loss at Twickenham two weeks ago as Galthie also opts for a Springboks-style 7-1 split on the bench

DOWN AND OUT: France’s Matthieu Jalibert endured a tough time against England. Pic: INPHO/Andrew Fosker

Backs Damian Penaud and Matthieu Jalibert were axed from France’s team to play Italy on Sunday in the Six Nations, paying the price for poor performances against England.

The decision by coach Fabien Galthié on Friday came after Les Tricolores made sloppy handling errors and missed tackles in a 26-25 loss at Twickenham two weeks ago. France dominated lengthy passages of play but failed to put away an England side that won with a converted try at the death.