Antoine Dupont and Romain Ntamack will resume the halfback partnership for France in their Six Nations opener against Italy in Paris on Sunday.

France have named a strong team to continue the quest for their first Six Nations title since 2010.

Fullback Melvyn Jaminet is joined by Damian Penaud and Gabin Villiere in the outside backs, while Gael Fickou and Jonathan Danty are midfield partners.

Captain Dupont will play just his second game in seven weeks after the world player of the year recently recovered from a knee problem and a positive coronavirus test.

A powerful pack sees Gregory Alldritt in the back row alongside Dylan Cretin and Anthony Jelonch.

Paul Willemse packs down with the talented Cameron Woki at lock and the front row comprises of Uini Antonio, Julien Marchand and Cyril Baille.

France will be without head coach Fabien Galthie after he returned a positive coronavirus test on Thursday morning.

France – 15 Melvyn Jaminet, 14 Damian Penaud, 13 Gael Fickou, 12 Jonathan Danty, 11 Gabin Villiere, 10 Romain Ntamack, 9 Antoine Dupont (c), 8 Gregory Alldritt, 7 Dylan Cretin, 6 Anthony Jelonch, 5 Paul Willemse, 4 Cameron Woki, 3 Uini Antonio, 2 Julien Marchand, 1 Cyril Baille.
Subs: 16 Peato Mauvaka, 17 Jean-Baptiste Gros, 18 Demba Bamba, 19 Romain Taofifenua, 20 Francois Cros, 21 Maxime Lucu, 22 Yoram Moefana, 23 Thomas Ramos.