Rugby

France make seven changes

France coach Bernard Laporte makes seven changes for his side's clash with New Zealand in Paris on Saturday.

Wed Nov 15 2006 - 00:00

France coach Bernard Laporte makes seven changes for his side's clash with New Zealand in Paris on Saturday.

Following the 47-3 thrashing at the hands of the All Blacks last weekend, Agen full-back Pepito Elhorga -  drafted into the squad earlier this week - replaces Julien Laharrague.

Biarritz's Serge Betsen, also called up this week, will have to settle for a place on the bench.

Veteran hooker Raphael Ibanez has been handed the captain's role in the absence of the injured Fabien Pelous.

France:Elhorga; Rougerie, Fritz, Jauzion, Heymans; Traille, Elissalde; Martin, Vermeulen, Bonnaire; Pape, Nallet; De Villiers, Ibanez (capt), Milloud. Replacements:Szarzewski, Marconnet, Jacquet, Betsen, Yachvili, Marty, Dominici.

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