Two uncapped players join France ahead of rugby test against New Zealand

Uncapped duo called into Les Bleus squad

France have called up two uncapped players to their squad ahead of their rugby test against New Zealand on Saturday. Montpellier hooker Thomas Lavault and Castres flanker Florent Vanverberghe have been drafted in by head coach Fabien Galthié as injury replacements for Peato Mauvaka and Anthony Jelonch.

Lavault and Vanverberghe earn first call-ups

Lavault, 23, has been in impressive form for Montpellier this season, making 10 appearances in the Top 14 and scoring two tries. He is seen as a potential long-term successor to Mauvaka, who is out with a knee injury.

Vanverberghe, 24, has also impressed for Castres this season, making 11 appearances in the Top 14 and scoring one try. He is a versatile back-rower who can play at flanker or No. 8.

Galthié has made several changes to his squad for the New Zealand test, with several players rested following their exertions in the Six Nations. Captain Antoine Dupont, fly-half Romain Ntamack and centre Gaël Fickou are among those who have been given a break.

France will be looking to bounce back from their defeat to Scotland in their final Six Nations match. They will face a tough test against a New Zealand side who are ranked No. 1 in the world.