Benhard Janse van Rensburg will sit on England’s bench for the non‑cap match against a France XV in Vannes on Friday. The 29‑year‑old, South African‑born former Springboks U‑20, secured eligibility after a RFU appeal and will be cleared to play Tests on 1 July, five years after relocating to England. Captain George Ford praised his “kid‑like excitement” and relentless training drive.

Critics such as ex‑England scrum‑half Danny Care argued home‑grown talent should be favoured, but head coach Steve Borthwick insisted the squad “think the world” of Janse van Rensburg after his May training camp debut. Borthwick lauded his character and top‑level skill, noting he adds a different dimension to the back row and gives the coach more options in the breakdown.

France will field a side missing Top 14 semi‑finalists Toulouse, Racing 92, Montpellier and Stade Français, relying on La Rochelle’s Nolann Le Garrec and Antoine Hastoy in the halves and a full Bordeaux‑Bègles front row anchored by veteran Jefferson Poirot. The fixture offers England a chance to test squad depth ahead of the summer Test window, while France gauges its resident‑qualified players ahead of the Six Nations.