Guy Noves has unveiled his starting XV.

Although France earned an expected win over Italy last weekend, the manner of their performance was criticised by many in the French media. While many praised the way in which they chose to attack, the French defence was breached on a number of occasions.

Therefore while it was expected that Guy Noves would make a number of changes, not many anticipated the French coach replacing both his props. However that is exactly what he has done, dropping Eddy Ben Arous and Rabah Slimani in favour of Jefferson Poirot and Uini Atonio.

Given that both Ben Arous and Slimani have earned much praise for their scrummaging, this would seem a little strange might be beneficial to Ireland

Despite scoring a try, Hugo Bonneval has also been relegated to the bench, with Teddy Thomas taking his place on the wing.

#XVdeFrance Découvrez la composition d’équipe pour le match face à l’Irlande! #soutienslexv #FRAIRL pic.twitter.com/ipLa8dVZvc

— FF Rugby (@FFRugby) February 11, 2016

Alan Drumm, Pundit Arena

Read More About: Eddy Ben Arous, France, guy noves, Hugo Bonneval, Ireland, Jefferson Poirot, Rabah Slimani, teddy thomas, Uini Atonio