England to spring big backline surprise for France showdown?
SPOTLIGHT: England could unleash playmakers Marcus Smith and Fin Smith in the backline against France in a bid to revive their Six Nations title challenge.
After losing 22-27 to Ireland in their Six Nations opener last weekend, England have no margin for error when France visit Twickenham on Saturday.
Despite the high stakes, head coach Steve Borthwick could be ready to make a bold selection gamble.
Marcus Smith has been England’s first-choice flyhalf since the 2023 World Cup.
But he is in contention to be moved to fullback for Saturday’s showdown to accommodate Fin Smith’s potential promotion to the starting line-up.
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Northampton star Fin Smith has made all seven of his previous Test appearances as a replacement.
He would have responsibility for directing the backline, with Marcus Smith providing a counter-attacking threat from 15, a position he first filled at the World Cup and has occupied in cameos since.
Selecting two of English rugby’s most creative talents together would offer an extra dimension with the ball, although Freddie Steward’s demotion at fullback would also rob the team of their aerial ace.
“Marcus is obviously another set of eyes that are very opportunistic. ‘Where’s the space? Who can I beat?’,” England attack coach Richard Wigglesworth said.
“But Freddie Steward brings an incredible level of high ball skill and a kick return that is incredibly decisive on the way back. There are competing demands that you are trading off all the time.
“We are blessed with having three No.10s that can all play international rugby to a high level. Fin has had less chance than the rest at the moment, but he is really clear with his game, he is confident without being arrogant and wants to get better.
“He has all the things that you associate with top 10s. He’s really clear with what he wants and how to best position the team.”
