Radio New Zealand - Te Reo Irirangi o Aotearoa

Wilkinson dropped for England's Six Nations clash with France

Updated at 11:47 am on 18 March 2010

Jonny Wilkinson has been dropped for England's final Six Nations rugby game against France this weekend as manager Martin Johnson made six changes from the side that laboured to a 15-all draw with Scotland last Sunday.

Wilkinson, who went off after 44 minutes at Murrayfield following a blow to the head, is replaced at first five by Toby Flood but remains in the squad among the replacements.

It is only the third time in his England career that Wilkinson has been dropped because of form rather than injury.

Johnson says he's looking to the future.

England have 2 wins from their 4 matches so far... the unbeaten French are favoured to complete the Grand Slam.

Second placed Ireland would have to hope France lose and they beat Scotland and overcome a 50 point scoring differential to take the title.

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