Centre Jones, who has scored two tries in the EPCR Challenge Cup so far this season, crossed for Scotland’s first converted try of the game in the 26th minute.

Scotland were already down by 19 before Jones touched down, with France scoring three tries in a fast start at the Stade de France in which both teams suffered early red cards.

A penalty from France’s Thomas Ramos before the break saw the teams go in with the score line 22-7 to the hosts, but Scotland piled on the pressure early in the second 40, determined to keep their hopes of a grand slam alive.

In the 48th minute they got their reward, with Jones crossing again to give Scotland some hope, before another Ramos penalty saw France pull away again.

Racing 92 fly-half Finn Russell, who will travel to South Africa to face Emirates Lions in the EPCR Challenge Cup Round of 16, had converted both of Jones’ tries, and he kicked the extras for his own score when he went over in the 68th minute to bring Scotland within four points of France and set up a grandstand finish.

But for all Scotland’s pressure, it was Russell’s Racing 92 teammate Gael Fickou who would have the last say on the match, slicing his way through Scotland’s defensive line to go over for a converted score and secure France’s victory in the last minute of time.

Jones will be looking ahead to the EPCR Round of 16 with Glasgow Warriors, who will face Dragons RFC at home on April 1.

Huw Jones, who plays for EPCR Challenge Cup side Glasgow Warriors, scored a brace for Scotland in their Six Nations 32-21 loss to France in Paris.