Warburton out so Jones will lead Wales for record time

Wales captain Sam Warburton is out of Saturday’s clash against France so Ryan Jones returns to lead the side for a record 30th time.

Warburton (above), the Cardiff Blues flanker, has a stinger injury, a problem which normally affects the shoulder.

Ospreys duo Richard Hibbard and Justin Tipuric both come into the team for the Paris match following the 30-22 loss at home to Ireland. Jones, who missed that defeat due to a damaged thumb, lines up at six alongside Tipuric at openside flanker and Toby Faletau at No8.

Hibbard returns from a shoulder injury to take his place in the front row while interim Wales head coach Rob Howley has named an unchanged backline which will see Jamie Roberts win his 50th cap.

There are two changes on the bench with Aaron Shingler replacing Tipuric and Lou Reed coming in for Olly Kohn.

“It’s disappointing to have Sam ruled out but Ryan comes in as captain with a wealth of experience,” said Howley.

“Saturday is a chance for us to go out and show what we can do. We have worked hard as a squad this week and want to deliver a performance we know we are capable of.”

Coach Philippe Saint-Andre has made two changes to the France team stunned 23-18 by Italy.

Powerful centre Mathieu Bastareaud replaces Florian Fritz, while Jocelino Suta takes over from injured captain Pascal Pape in the second row. Flanker Thierry Dusautoir will skipper the side.

WALES: L Halfpenny, A Cuthbert, J Davies, J Roberts, G North, D Biggar, M Phillips; G Jenkins, R Hibbard, A Jones, A Coombs, I Evans, R Jones (capt), J Tipuric, T Faletau. Reps: K Owens, P James, C Mitchell, L Reed, A Shingler, L Williams, J Hook, S Williams.

FRANCE: Y Huget W Fofana, M Mermoz, M Bastareaud, B Fall, F Michalak, M Machenaud; Y Forestier, D Szarzewski, N Mas, J Suta, Y Maestri, F Ouedraogo, T Dusautoir (capt), L Picamoles. Reps: B Kayser, V Debaty, L Ducalon, R Taofifenua, D Chouly, M Parra, F Trinh-Duc, F Fritz.