England star Marcus Smith reveals plan to swap nations later in his career

Saturday, 08 November 2025 at 08:59

byRugby Rucker

England and Lions fly-half Marcus Smith has dropped a tantalising hint that he could one day trade the Red Rose for the Philippines, the country of his birth.

The 26-year-old Harlequins playmaker, capped 44 times by England, revealed his ambitions during an “Ask Me Anything” with England Rugby. While he remains fully committed to England, Smith admitted he dreams of one day supporting—and potentially playing for—the Philippines.

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“One day I’d love to help and be involved in Philippine rugby—my brother currently plays for the Philippines,” said Smith. “Right now, my heart and mind are fully with England. It’s a dream to wear this kit.

"But one day that might be different… if the chance comes and my body holds up, it would be amazing to play alongside my younger brothers.”

Born in Manila to a Filipino mother and British father, Smith moved to the UK at eight, where his rugby journey kicked off.

He’s gone on to shine at Harlequins, guide them to a historic Premiership title in 2021, and earn a late call-up to the British & Irish Lions. His dazzling footwork, precision kicking, and creative spark have made him a key figure under Steve Borthwick’s England.

This weekend, Smith is starting at fullback for England against Fiji, showing he remains central to the Red Rose’s plans.

World Rugby rules allow a player to switch nations after a three-year international stand-down, meaning Smith could one day return to his roots once his England career winds down.

With his younger brother already donning the Philippines jersey, could we see Marcus bringing his magic to Manila?

Watch this space.

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20 Tom Curry (England)

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19 Scott Barrett (New Zealand)

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18 Tommaso Menoncello (Italy)

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17 Sione Tuipulotu (Scotland)

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16 Thomas Ramos (France)

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15 Ox Nché (South Africa)

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14 Maro Itoje (England)

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13 Tadhg Beirne (Ireland)

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12 Caelan Doris (Ireland)

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11 Eben Etzebeth (South Africa)

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10 Will Jordan (New Zealand)

With a strike rate that would make any winger jealous — 43 tries in just 50 Tests — it’s no surprise Will Jordan is being spoken of as one of the world’s best fullbacks. Since his All Blacks debut in 2020, he’s been a constant try-scoring threat and recently celebrated his 50th cap against Australia.

Jordan’s positional sense, timing and speed make him a nightmare for opposition defences. At 27, he’s now entering his prime and still has time to add to his already incredible record.

9 Louis Bielle-Biarrey (France)

Not many 22-year-olds can say they’ve redefined expectations — but Louis Bielle-Biarrey has. Whether it’s becoming Bordeaux’s all-time leading try scorer or breaking Six Nations records with eight tries in a single campaign, he’s doing things most wings only dream of.

His Champions Cup breakout came at 18, scoring a hat-trick on debut. Last season, he helped Bordeaux reach and win their first European final and was crowned Six Nations Player of the Tournament. Blistering pace and fearless play define him, but he also brings tactical awareness well beyond his years. France — and rugby — have a superstar on their hands.

8 Finn Russell (Scotland)

Despite a demanding club season and the toll of minor injuries, Finn Russell shone during the 2025 British & Irish Lions tour, reaffirming his status among rugby’s finest playmakers.

Scotland’s talisman was at the heart of the Lions’ attacking spark — his vision, creativity, and game management setting the tone in the biggest moments. A World Rugby Player of the Year nominee in 2024, Russell has evolved from maverick to master craftsman, blending flair with control to devastating effect.

Whether dazzling for Bath or dictating for Scotland, few can match his ability to shape a game. At his best, he’s not just a fly-half — he’s an artist with a rugby ball.

7 Cheslin Kolbe (South Africa)

Few players divide opinion like Cheslin Kolbe — but there’s no doubting his ability to turn a game on its head. Critics point to his modest domestic form in Japan, but Kolbe has delivered when it matters most.

A two-time Rugby World Cup winner, he’s scored in finals, dominated Lions tours, and created magic for the Springboks time and again. Whether it’s burning defenders or producing clutch moments under pressure, Kolbe thrives on the big stage. In full flight, he remains one of the most exhilarating sights in world rugby.

6 Damian Penaud (France)

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5 Jordie Barrett

It was in Ireland — not New Zealand — where Jordie Barrett proved he’s truly world-class across any environment.

During a six-month stint with Leinster, Barrett stood out even among their stacked squad, scoring tries, winning awards, and helping them to a URC title. His versatility is a coach’s dream, playing 10, 12, 15 and slotting in wherever needed.

Add that to his 50+ caps for the All Blacks, and it’s clear why he’s so highly rated. Intelligent, physical and composed, Barrett has grown from a utility player into a game-controlling leader.

4 Dan Sheehan (Ireland)

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3 Pieter-Steph du Toit (South Africa)

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2 Ardie Savea (New Zealand)

A move to Moana Pasifika was never just symbolic — Ardie Savea came to compete, and he’s done exactly that. Last season, he led the team to landmark wins and was named Super Rugby Pacific Player of the Year with games to spare. Savea’s blend of explosiveness and calm leadership is unmatched, and he remains a talisman for the All Blacks as well. His mission to uplift Pasifika rugby hasn’t slowed his personal dominance one bit. Whether it’s beating defenders or lifting teammates, Savea influences every facet of the game.

1 Antoine Dupont (France)

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Dupont is the only player to ever win both major global rugby awards, underlining his unmatched versatility. With five Top 14 titles, two European Cups, and now a sevens legacy, he’s conquered every format. Although he hasn’t played since the Six Nations, there’s