Temperature drops ahead of Six Nations clash

The Stade de France has passed a pitch inspection conducted this afternoon in preparation for tomorrow's RBS 6 Nations showdown between France and Ireland.

Both teams' traditional eve of match captain's run was cancelled in an attempt to protect the turf from the sub-zero temperatures that have gripped Paris.

Ireland's kickers travelled to an indoor training centre to practice without the remainder of the squad, who stayed at the team hotel.

The Stade de France lacks under-soil heating, so the covers will only be removed two hours before the scheduled 8pm BST kick-off time.

The temperature beneath the covers is being maintained at two degrees with a Six Nations spokesperson stating that conditions will be examined again tomorrow.

Minus seven has been forecast for kick off, but it is feared it could drop as low as minus 10.

France winger Vincent Clerc declared earlier in the week there is "reason for concern" over the pitch, claiming sections near the touchline were frozen during last Saturday's victory over Italy.

Another inspection will take place at 6.15pm (Irish time) tomorrow but the IRFU are understood to be 100% satisfied that the match will go ahead as planned.