Laporte names Califano in place of De Villiers

Christian Califano has been called up to the French Six Nations squad as a replacement for prop Pieter De Villiers who failed…

Christian Califano has been called up to the French Six Nations squad as a replacement for prop Pieter De Villiers who failed a recent drugs test.

France play England at Twickenham next weekend.

Traces of cocaine and ecstasy were found in an A sample taken from De Villiers under the auspices of the French Ministry of Sports on December 18th last year.

Califano (30) has played 65 times for his country and is the most capped prop in French rugby history.

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France coach Bernard Laporte, who expressed his disbelief and dismay when De Villiers' positive test was confirmed yesterday, said: "It will be a great challenge.

"We have to be efficient and ready in all departments. This tournament is preparation for the World Cup. We won this last year and want to remain number one.

Aurelien Rougerie returns to the squad after injury.

Forwards:C Califano, J Crenca, S Marconnet, R Ibanez, J Rue, D Auradou, O Brouzet, F Pelous, S Betsen, S Chabal, I Harinordoquy, O Magne.

Backs:F Galthie (captain), D Yachvili, F Gelez, G Merceron, T Castaignede, V Clerc, X Garbajosa, C Poitrenaud, A Rougerie, D Traille.