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Scotland Under-20s ready for “huge physical challenge” against much-changed France

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Two sides currently level on points in the Under-20s Six Nations go head-to-head on Friday night as Scotland welcome France.

Two sides currently level on points in the Under-20s Six Nations go head-to-head on Friday night as Scotland welcome France.

Both sides have won one and lost two of their three matches in the Championship to date, with Scotland going into the match looking to build on their 30-29 victory over Italy in Round 3.

The hosts have made just one change to that victorious side, with Roan Frostwick in for Kyle McGhie at scrum-half.

Scotland head coach Sean Lineen said: “France pose a huge physical challenge for us and will be looking to bounce back from their defeat against Wales.

“Both teams are looking to get their second win of the tournament so it’s sure to be a massive test.

“We’re looking forward to playing at home again and will be looking for the crowd to get behind the boys.”

France have rung the changes for the visit to Netherdale, making eight alterations to the team which lost 14-11 at Wales in Round 3.

Only wing Nathaniel Hulleu and fly-half Thibault Debaes remain in the same positions in the backline.

Erwan Dridi has moved from wing to full-back while Yoram Moefana, Joris Moura and Nathan Farissier all come into the side, along with Nolann Le Garrec at scrum-half.

Guillaume Cramont starts at hooker and Paul Mallet also comes into the front row. Jordan Joseph is in at No.8 to captain the side.

Friday’s match gets underway at 8pm.

Scotland Under-20s: Ollie Smith, Rufus McLean, Matthew Currie, Robbie McCallum, Jacob Henry, Nathan Chamberlain, Roan Frostwick, Thomas Lambert, Ewan Ashman, Mak Wilson, Kieran Watt, Cameron Henderson, Gregor Brown, Connor Boyle, Rory Darge.

Replacements: Rory Jackson, Alex Maxwell, George Breese, Jamie Campbell, Jack Hill, Kyle McGhie, Cameron Scott, Harry Paterson

France Under-20s: Erwan Dridi, Nathaniel Hulleu, Yoram Moefana, Joris Moura, Nathan Farissier, Thibault Debaes, Nolann Le Garrec, Jordan Joseph, Matthias Haddad-Victor, Mickael Guillard, Joshua Brennan, Gauthier Maravat, Paul Mallez, Guillaume Cramont, Sacha Lotrian

Replacements: Loris Zarantonello, Aselo Ikahehegi, Regis Montagne, Theo William, Lachaise, Kevin Viallard, Edgar Retière, Romain Fusier