Castres Beast Ibrahim Diarra Is Another Sign Of France's Strength In Depth

Last week we reported on the inclusion of the uncapped Jules Plisson in France's side which defeated England in Paris on Saturday, and the guy didn't do too badly at all for a debutant. With half an eye on what could be a very big night in Paris next month, we continue our Gallic player-watch with Les Bleus' latest inclusion, flanker Ibrahim Diarra.

The Castres player replaces the injured Antoine Burban in Philippe Saint-André's squad for their game against Italy on Sunday afternoon.

Something of an on-off starter in Castres' unsuccessful Heineken Cup campaign, the Parisian is nonetheless an absolute tank and a Top 14 regular.

Diarra made his only previous for the Tricolores against Italy in the 2008 Championship.