"Right time," - Steve Borthwick explains reason for dropping Owen Farrell

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The only change to England's starting XV in the win over Wales also means Ellis Genge takes over the captaincy.

A huge, statement call from the England coach in just the fourth game of his tenure.

Quizzed on the decision to drop Farrell, Borthwick said: "I can't praise Owen enough.

"Not just for this week - but every day since we started working together in this capacity. He's been incredible at helping all the players around the squad and he cares so much about this team. He has incredible respect from everyone.

"I'm constantly watching the players - in every game they play. Marcus played and trained really well.

"If you were to track all the teams I've selected, there have been some bold decisions. Last year's finals. I try to pick the right team for each game. I don't consider how it's perceived from outside. I consider what the best team is for each game that weekend."

On Farrell's goal kicking woes, Borthwick added: "From the point of view of Owen's point of view as a kicker, every kicker has a small dip, but all the great kickers come back.

"I consider every aspect [for selection]. Owen and Marcus have been kicking brilliantly in training this week.

"There are wider aspects to be considered within this game and gameplan - not just goal-kicking."

On Saturday, March 11, the Twickenham Stadium in London will host the England versus France rugby match, which will begin at 4.45pm (GMT).

Other matches scheduled for the same weekend include Italy versus Wales, aimed at avoiding the last place, at 2.15pm on Saturday, and Scotland versus Ireland at 3pm on Sunday, March 12.

Kiwi Ben O’Keeffe will take charge of England v France.

Referee: Ben O’Keeffe (NZR)

Assistant Referee 1: Jaco Peyper (SARU)

Assistant Referee 2: Andrea Piardi (FIR)

TMO: Brett Cronan (RA)

15. Freddie Steward

14. Max Malins

13. Henry Slade 

12. Ollie Lawrence 

11. Anthony Watson

10. Marcus Smith

9. Jack van Poortvliet

1. Ellis Genge (C)

2. Jamie George 

3. Kyle Sinckler

4. Maro Itoje 

5. Ollie Chessum 

6. Lewis Ludlam 

7. Jack Willis 

8. Alex Dombrandt

16. Jack Walker

17. Mako Vunipola

18. Dan Cole

19. David Ribbans

20. Ben Curry

21. Alex Mitchell 

22. Owen Farrell

23. Henry Arundell