England boss Clive Woodward today thrust Mike Catt into the World Cup semi-final spotlight, and declared: "He deserves his chance."
Bath star Catt has been rewarded for an outstanding super-sub display against Wales last weekend, when his second-half appearance turned the game England's way.
And he will line up against France on Sunday as one of four personnel changes from the Welsh quarter-final clash.
Catt replaces his Bath colleague Mike Tindall, partnering Will Greenwood in midfield, with Josh Lewsey returning in the full-back position, prop Trevor Woodman taking over from Jason Leonard and flanker Richard Hill back for a first appearance since England's opening World Cup game a month ago.
With Lewsey reclaiming the number 15 jersey after recovering from a hamstring injury, Jason Robinson switches from full-back to right-wing duties and Dan Luger drops out.
Leonard, meanwhile, is on the bench. If required for duty, he will win his 112th Test cap and break Frenchman Philippe Sella's world record.
"Clearly, Mike Catt has been playing very well he deserves his chance," said Woodward.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article