Former Penrith Rugby Club junior star Mark Wilson has once again been named in England's starting line-up for their Guinness Six Nations home clash against France.

The Newcastle Falcons flanker will be looking to continue his good form after he impressed in last Saturday's stunning 32-20 victory in Ireland when the French side visit Twickenham this Sunday.

He made a remarkable 27 successful hits to emerge as his side’s top defensive player alongside Mako Vunipola as Eddie Jones’ side toppled the reigning champions.

Wilson will earn his 10th international cap.

France picked the heaviest pack ever in international rugby for their Six Nations-opening 24-19 defeat at home to Wales last Friday, and Wilson is expecting another hugely physical French test.

"That’s why you play the game - to have challenges, physical challenges. That’s something a lot of the lads and myself enjoy," he said.

"I know it’s been well documented that they are a big pack but there are strengths and weaknesses in every pack in this tournament.

"You’ve got to exploit their size. It’s important that you stay away from their strengths.

"If you get into an arm-wrestle with them, it’s going to be a tough day at the office. We’ve got to think of ways of attacking that."

Elsewhere, England have sprung a surprise by naming Chris Ashton in place of Jack Nowell.

Nowell impressed through his work-rate and carrying at the Aviva Stadium but has lost his place on the right wing to Ashton, who makes his first Championship start since 2013.

Ashton is well-known to France's players after spending a season at Toulon in which he set a new Top 14 try-scoring record of 24 touchdowns in 23 appearances before joining Sale last summer.

Head coach Jones said: "We have gone for Chris Ashton on the wing because we think he might sneak us a try early in the game.

"Jack Nowell was brilliant against Ireland and he'll play a significant role for us off the bench."

The second change to the starting XV sees Courtney Lawes partner George Kruis at lock after Maro Itoje was struck down by a knee injury.

Filling the vacancy on the bench created by Lawes' promotion is Joe Launchbury.

But there will be no Cumbrian representation in Scotland's home match against Ireland tomorrow.

Former Carlisle Rugby Club men Chris Harris and Gary Graham miss out on the Scotland squad, while Will Addison isn't included in Ireland's 23.