England coach Clive Woodward has caused something of a surprise by his selection that sees out-half Charlie Hodgson paired in the centre with Will Greenwood for the openeing Six Nations game against France on Saturday in Twickenham. Hodgson, (22) playes his club rugby for Sale Sharks wearing the number 10 jersey and he scored 44 points from that position on his English debut against Roamania in 2001. Although lacking experience as a centre, Hodgson's selection is seen as the most innovative move by Woodward in his five and a half year reign as England coach.

Jason Leonard will win his 100th cap at Twickenham on Saturday, while the two other changes, besides Hodgson's, sees Dan Luger and Julian White come into the side for Phil Christophers (wing) and the injured Phil Vickery respectively. Former captain Lawrence Dallaglio is again selected on the bench.

England: J Robinson (Sale Sharks); D Luger (Harlequins), W Greenwood (Harlequins), C Hodgson (Sale Sharks), B Cohen (Northampton), J Wilkinson (Newcastle), M Dawson (Northampton); J Leonard (Harlequins), S Thompson (Northampton), J White (Bristol Shoguns), M Johnson capt (Leicester), B Kay (Leicester), L Moody (Leicester), N Back (Leicester), R Hill (Saracens).

Replacements: M Regan (Leeds), G Rowntree (Leicester), D Grewcock (Bath), L Dallaglio (Wasps), A Gomarsall (Gloucester), P Christophers (Bristol Shoguns), J Simpson-Daniel (Gloucester).