Skrela won his first full international cap for France on 30 June 2001 against New Zealand. He did not earn his second until six years later, when his performances for Stade Français attracted the attention of French coach Bernard Laporte. He was part of the 2007 France Six Nations and World Cup squads and played in many of the team's matches. After returning to his hometown club Toulouse he was again selected under new coach Marc Lièvremont for France's 2008 autumn tests. On 11 May 2011 he was selected by Marc Lièvremont to participate in the next 2011 Rugby World Cup. The French coach underlined Skrela's skills and maturity. Skrela was injured in the opening game against Japan and withdrew from the tournament and replaced by Jean-Marc Doussain. France were beaten in the final by hosts New Zealand.