Marcus Smith's Reaction to Brutal England Axe Revealed by Steve Borthwick
Yesterday at 02:24 PM
Marcus Smith has taken his England demotion on the chin—now Steve Borthwick wants him to make Italy pay.
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The Harlequins playmaker has been benched for Sunday's Six Nations clash after defensive frailties and a lack of attacking involvement in the tense 16-15 win over Scotland.
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Borthwick has turned to Elliot Daly's high-ball skills at full-back to counter Italy's aerial assault, leaving Smith waiting in the wings.
England's head coach broke the news to Smith on Tuesday, with the 26-year-old understandably disappointed. But rather than sulking, the 42-cap magician is ready to make an impact when it matters most.
Borthwick has handed him a licence to thrill late on, urging him to run rings around tiring defenders and add some much-needed firepower to England's attack.
Borthwick said: "I told Marcus about selection, and he went out and trained brilliantly—immense credit to him as a person."
"Every player wants to start, and I get that. But this squad is packed with attacking talent, and Marcus is a game-changer—that's the best way I can describe it."
"We all know he can create space where others can't. The exciting thing is unleashing him when the game opens up. When he comes on fresh against tired defenders, the whole stadium will feel it."
Daly may get the starting nod, but Borthwick insists it's about the squad, not individuals. Smith's moment will come—and England fans should be ready for fireworks.
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Bookies Predict the Lions XV to Face Australia – Two England Players Start
Bookmakers have released their predictions for the British & Irish Lions’ starting XV to face Australia in the 2025 tour, highlighting a squad dominated by Irish talent and featuring only one English starter.
The anticipated lineup, along with the latest odds for each position, is as follows:
Forwards
1. Andrew Porter (Ireland) – 1/2
A converted loosehead prop who started his career as a tighthead, Porter is a cornerstone of Ireland's pack with his powerful scrummaging and relentless work rate around the pitch.
2. Dan Sheehan (Ireland) – 3/10
One of the most dynamic hookers in world rugby, Sheehan offers explosive ball-carrying ability and strong set-piece play. He has become a key figure in Ireland's recent successes.
3. Tadhg Furlong (Ireland) – 8/13
Arguably the best tighthead prop in the game, Furlong is known for his scrummaging dominance and remarkable skills in open play, often moving like a back despite his size.
4. Maro Itoje (England) – 1/5
The only Englishman in the starting XV, Itoje is a world-class lock with exceptional athleticism, lineout expertise, and a knack for disrupting opposition attacks. A Lions veteran, he'll be vital for the tour.
5. Joe McCarthy (Ireland) – 1/2
A rising star in Irish rugby, McCarthy has made a huge impact with his physicality and work rate in Leinster's second row. He's quickly becoming a dominant force in European rugby.
6. Josh van der Flier (Ireland) – 1/3
The 2022 World Player of the Year, Van der Flier is an outstanding openside flanker with relentless tackling, breakdown skills, and an ability to pop up in crucial moments.
7. Ben Earl (England) – 4/9
England's standout forward in recent tournaments, Earl's dynamic ball-carrying, high work rate, and speed make him a perfect fit for the Lions' back row.
8. Caelan Doris (Ireland) – 1/4
One of the best No.8s in world rugby, Doris combines intelligence, strength, and leadership. His ball-carrying ability and defensive prowess make him an essential selection.
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