England have dropped the Saracens back Max Malins for their final Six Nations match in Paris, despite him playing every minute of the campaign so far.
Eddie Jones has named a 28-man squad that travelled to Paris on Tuesday afternoon. The adaptable back Malins is the most surprising absentee, having performed proficiently on the right wing – a new position – this season. The RFU confirmed that he is not injured.
Also missing is Jamie Blamire, the reserve hooker, with Leicester’s Nic Dolly preferred in the absence of Luke Cowan-Dickie.
Wasps flanker Jack Willis returned for a single training session after injury, while Orlando Bailey, Ollie Hassell-Collins and Alex Mitchell are all returning to their clubs.
Malins’ absence opens the door to a possible debut for Louis Lynagh, the Harlequins wing who is the son of former Australia fly-half Michael Lynagh, and is eligible for both the Wallabies and Australia. He makes the squad, as does his Quins team-mate Luke Northmore.
Among the forwards are the uncapped Alfie Barbeary and Sam Underhill, who is on the way back from injury with Bath. With Tom Curry injured, he could be pressed into action.
Kyle Sinckler must continue to go through the concussion return to play protocols after leaving the field in the defeat to Ireland.
Charlie Ewels was sent off during that game, leaving Nick Isiekwe in line for a return to the side.
