PARIS, France (AFP) - France on Friday called up Julien Bonnaire to replace ankle injury victim and back row forward Imanol Harinordoquy for their March 9 Six Nations encounter with Italy.

On Thursday, Biarritz had pulled Harinordoquy out of Saturday's game against Stade Francais after he picked up the injury playing against Bourgoin in the Top 14 last Sunday.

A scan Thursday revealed a slight muscular tear requiring a three-week break and after an assessment by French medical staff the national side called in Clermont's Bonnaire.

Bonnaire, 29, has won 40 caps and has already featured in this year's Six Nations, which saw France start with wins over Scotland and Ireland before a home loss to England.