Marcus Smith wants to swap nations one day to play with brothers
03/30/2025 04:25 AM
Marcus Smith has revealed his ambition to support and potentially play for Philippine rugby once his England career draws to a close.
The 26-year-old Harlequins fly-half, who has 30 caps for England, was born in the Philippines to a Filipino mother and a British father.
He spent the first eight years of his life in the country before moving to the UK, where his rugby journey began.
Under current World Rugby eligibility rules, Smith could represent the Philippines after a three-year stand-down period if he stops playing for England.
During an “Ask Me Anything” session with England Rugby, Smith opened up about his connection to his birth country.
"One day I'd love to help and be involved in Philippine rugby—my brother currently plays for the Philippines," Smith shared.
"Obviously, my heart and my mind are fully with England at the minute—it's a dream of mine to be wearing this kit right now. One day that might be different, or when I retire from here, if I get that opportunity, if my body still holds up, it would be lovely to play with both of my younger brothers."
Smith's rugby career has been nothing short of spectacular. After dazzling in Harlequins' academy, he made his senior debut at just 18 and quickly established himself as one of the most exciting playmakers in the Premiership. His breakthrough season came in 2020/21 when he guided Harlequins to a dramatic Premiership title, earning a call-up to the British & Irish Lions as a late replacement.
Since making his England debut against the USA in 2021, Smith has become a key figure in Steve Borthwick's squad, known for his electric footwork, pinpoint kicking, and creative flair.
With his family ties to the Philippines and his younger brother already donning the national jersey, Smith's potential involvement could provide a huge boost to rugby in the region.
Could we see the Twickenham star lighting up the rugby scene in Manila someday? Watch this space.
EDITORS PICKS:
- Get a Chance to Watch the Lions in Australia
- David Flatman's Lions XV: A Bold Blend of Power and Flair
- Eben Etzebeth didn't hesitate when naming his toughest opponent
- Bonnie Blue in talks over shocking big money deal with rugby club
28 England players on Andy Farrell’s 75-man Lions watchlist
British and Irish Lions head coach Andy Farrell has confirmed that a 75-player longlist has been assembled ahead of the 2025 tour to Australia. The competition is fierce, with Farrell admitting there's no shortage of talent vying for a spot.
Looseheads: Genge and Porter Set to Lead the Charge
Ireland's Andrew Porter remains the front-runner to start in the No. 1 jersey after his impressive performances in recent seasons. Scotland's Pierre Schoeman offers a powerful scrummaging option, while Wales' Nicky Smith is a consistent performer. England is well-represented with Ellis Genge, Bevan Rodd, and rising star Fin Baxter pushing for inclusion.
- Andrew Porter (Ireland)
- Pierre Schoeman (Scotland)
- Nicky Smith (Wales)
- Ellis Genge (England)
- Bevan Rodd (England)
- Fin Baxter (England)
WIN A TRIP TO THE 2025 LIONS:
HE PACKAGE INCLUDES
- 2 x Return flight tickets from the UK to Australia
- 2 x Tickets to watch the 2nd Test in Melbourne
- 2 x Tickets to watch the 3rd Test in Sydney
- 4 x Night's accommodation in Melbourne with bed & breakfast (24-27 July)
- 7 x Night's accommodation in Sydney with bed & breakfast (28 July-3 Aug)
- 2 x Flight tickets Melbourne to Sydney including airport hotel group transfers
- 2 x Tickets to watch a private function with Lions legends
- Additional events to be announced
The winner will be part of the Lions supporters group with tour representatives on hand to oversee everything.
Hookers: Sheehan and George in Pole Position
Ireland's Dan Sheehan has been a standout performer and looks a strong contender to start. His Leinster teammate Ronan Kelleher provides excellent cover, while England's Jamie George and a returning Luke Cowan-Dickie bring plenty of Lions experience. Dewi Lake is Wales' leading option.
- Dan Sheehan (Ireland)
- Ronan Kelleher (Ireland)
- Jamie George (England)
- Luke Cowan-Dickie (England)
- Dewi Lake (Wales)
Tightheads: Furlong Leads Strong Contingent
Ireland's Tadhg Furlong is a near-certainty for the squad, while Finlay Bealham adds versatility. England's trio of Will Stuart, Joe Heyes, and Kyle Sinckler offer plenty of competition. Scotland's Zander Fagerson remains a reliable option.
- Tadhg Furlong (Ireland)
- Finlay Bealham (Ireland)
- Will Stuart (England)
- Joe Heyes (England)
- Kyle Sinckler (England)
- Zander Fagerson (Scotland)
Locks/Blindsides: Itoje and Beirne Among Favourites
Maro Itoje remains a key figure, with England also supplying George Martin, Ollie Chessum, and veteran Courtney Lawes. Ireland's Tadhg Beirne and James Ryan provide leadership, while Joe McCarthy and Iain Henderson add depth. Scotland's Scott Cummings and Grant Gilchrist will compete for spots, while Dafydd Jenkins looks to be Wales' strongest option.
- Maro Itoje (England)
- George Martin (England)
- Ollie Chessum (England)
- Courtney Lawes (England)
- David Ribbans (England)
- James Ryan (Ireland)
- Tadhg Beirne (Ireland)
- Joe McCarthy (Ireland)
- Iain Henderson (Ireland)
- Dafydd Jenkins (Wales)
- Scott Cummings (Scotland)
- Grant Gilchrist (Scotland)
Flankers/No. 8s: Doris and Earl Set to Shine
Ireland's Caelan Doris is a top contender for the No. 8 jersey, while Josh van der Flier and Peter O'Mahony add experience and breakdown prowess. England's back-row options are loaded, with Tom Curry, Ben Earl, and Jack Willisoffering variety. Scotland's Rory Darge and Jamie Ritchie are strong candidates, while Wales' Jac Morgan and Aaron Wainwright bring dynamism.
- Tom Curry (England)
- Ben Curry (England)
- Ben Earl (England)
- Sam Underhill (England)
- Henry Pollock (England)
- Jack Willis (England)
- Tom Willis (England)
- Caelan Doris (Ireland)
- Josh van der Flier (Ireland)
- Peter O'Mahony (Ireland)
- Jack Conan (Ireland)
- Rory Darge (Scotland)
- Jamie Ritchie (Scotland)
- Matt Fagerson (Scotland)
- Jack Dempsey (Scotland)
- Jac Morgan (Wales)
- Aaron Wainwright (Wales)
CONTINUES ON PAGE TWO
The post Marcus Smith wants to swap nations one day to play with brothers appeared first on Ruck.
