Rory Kockott will make his first start for France when they take on Scotland in their Six Nations opener on Saturday in Paris.

The South African-born scrum-half, who is one of seven changes, has been selected following his three appearances off the bench during the November internationals.

Camille Lopez retains the number 10 jersey for the encounter, while Scott Spedding has been given the nod to start and Rabah Slimani will come in as tighthead prop.

Nicolas Mas, who has 76 caps to his name, has failed to make the bench and his spot has been taken by La Rochelle prop Uini Atonio.

France team to face Scotland:

Scott Spedding, Yoann Huget, Mathieu Barstareaud, Wesley Fofana, Teddy Thomas, Camille Lopez, Rory Kockott; Alexandre Menini, Guilhem Guirado, Rabah Slimani, Pascal Pape, Yoann Maestri, Thierry Dusautoir, Damien Chouly, Bernard Le Roux,

Replacements:

Benjamin Kayser, Uini Atonio, Eddy Ben Arous, Romain Taofifenua, Loann Goujon, Morgan Parra, Remi Tales, Remi Lamerat