Borthwick Backs Marcus Smith as "Game-Changer" Despite England Bench Role

Posted : 06 March 2025

England coach Steve Borthwick has reaffirmed his confidence in Marcus Smith as a "game-changer" despite dropping him to the bench for Sunday's Six Nations clash against Italy at Twickenham. Smith, who shifted from flyhalf to fullback after England’s opening 27-22 defeat to Ireland, played in his unfamiliar role during the team's narrow one-point victories over France and Scotland.

However, he now finds himself on the bench as Fin Smith retains the flyhalf position, while the experienced Elliot Daly takes over at fullback. Centre Fraser Dingwall also returns to the starting lineup, replacing Henry Slade, who has been left out of the matchday squad entirely.

Borthwick acknowledged that every player wants to start but emphasized that Smith remains crucial to England’s strategy. He praised the 25-year-old’s ability to create opportunities, noting that his impact off the bench could be even more effective later in games when fatigue sets in.

"Marcus has done so many things we want. He’s a game-changer. He has the ability to find space that other players can't," Borthwick said. He expressed excitement about utilizing Smith’s attacking prowess when the match opens up, seeing him as a player who can make a significant difference in the latter stages.

The coach's changes mean that five of England's seven backs come from Premiership champions Northampton. Dingwall will link up with club teammates Alex Mitchell and Fin Smith in the midfield, while Tommy Freeman and Ollie Sleightholme start on the wings.

Borthwick hopes that their club chemistry will translate seamlessly to the international stage as England look to maintain their unbeaten record against Italy and stay in contention with tournament leaders Ireland, who face France in Dublin. He highlighted the intuitive connection among the Northampton players, particularly at scrumhalf, flyhalf, and inside centre, as a key advantage England can exploit.

Despite winning against Scotland, England struggled to convert their opportunities, scoring only one try compared to Scotland’s three. Borthwick is keen to see a faster, more fluid attacking approach against an Italy side that was heavily defeated 73-24 by France.

He acknowledged that pressure affected England’s performance against Scotland and urged his players to embrace a more instinctive, high-tempo style. "My job is to ensure this shirt does not feel heavy," he stated, encouraging his team to seize quick opportunities and inject more speed into their game to counter Italy’s breakdown threat.

Borthwick Backs Marcus Smith as "Game-Changer" Despite England Bench Role

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