Scotland head coach Gregor Townsend has made five changes to his starting lineup for the crucial Six Nations clash against France at Murrayfield. The Scots, currently second in the table, face the tournament leaders in what could be a decisive match for both teams' championship hopes.

Townsend has opted for a fresh front row, with Pierre Schoeman, George Turner, and D'arcy Rae all coming into the starting XV. Jack Dempsey returns from injury at No 8, while Matt Fagerson shifts to blindside flanker. Gregor Brown partners Scott Cummings in the second row, and Darcy Graham retains his place on the right wing after tying Scotland's all-time try-scoring record.

France, defending their Six Nations title, have named an unchanged starting XV from their opening victory over Ireland. Fly-half Matthieu Jalibert returns after injury, linking up with captain Antoine Dupont. Centres Yoram Moefana and Nicolas Depoortere are also back in the lineup. The match presents a significant opportunity for Scotland to top the table with a bonus-point win, while France could secure the championship with victory in Edinburgh.