Marcus Smith among 13 England players released for Six Nations opener
Rugby NewsThursday, 01 February 2024 at 19:21
England's Six Nations opener against Italy in Rome on Saturday will be without fly-half Marcus Smith, who sustained a calf injury during Monday's training session.
RUCK’s 2024 Guinness Six Nations content
Initially expected to start against the Azzurri, Smith's absence opens the door for 21-year-old Fin Smith from Northampton to make his international debut from the bench, while George Ford takes the starting position.
In a squad update, England head coach Steve Borthwick revealed that Smith is among 13 players not being utilized this weekend. Despite the setback, Borthwick expressed confidence in the team's preparation, stating, “After an excellent week’s preparation in Girona, we look forward to the challenge of playing Italy in Rome."
Commenting on the Azzurri's strengths, Borthwick acknowledged, “The Azzurri are a dangerous team, with some talented ball carriers and players who like to find space. We’ll need to make good decisions, keep our discipline, and maintain a level of intensity to our performance from the first whistle to the last.”
Borthwick also highlighted the significance of earning a first cap for the country, expressing his delight for the debutants and their hard work to secure a spot in the 23-man squad facing Italy.
The coach's message to the newcomers emphasized being themselves, seizing the opportunity, and playing to their strengths.
The identity of the other players released from the squad can be found below.
Released players
Jamie Blamire (Newcastle Falcons)
Jamie Blamire of England during the Summer Nations Series Rugby match between Wales and England at Principality Stadium on August 5, 2023 in Cardiff, Wales. Photo: Phil Mingo/PPAUK
Joe Heyes (Leicester Tigers)
Beno Obano (Bath rugby)
Nick Isiekwe (Saracens)
Nick Isiekwe of Saracens celebrating after the Gallagher Premiership Rugby Final Match between Saracens and Sale Sharks at Twickenham Stadium on 27 May 2023. Photo: Phil Mingo/PPAUK
Ben Curry (Sale Sharks)
Alex Dombrandt (Harlequins)
Alex Dombrandt of England during the Summer Nations Series Rugby match between Wales and England at Principality Stadium on August 5, 2023 in Cardiff, Wales. Photo: Phil Mingo/PPAUK
Tom Pearson (Northampton Saints)
Ben Spencer (Bath Rugby)
Marcus Smith (Harlequins)
Max Ojomoh (Bath Rugby)
Will Muir (Bath Rugby)
Tom Roebuck (Sale Sharks)
George Furbank (Northampton Saints)
George Furbank of England during the Autumn Nations Match between England and Tonga at Twickenham Stoop on 6 November 2021. Photo: Tom Sandberg/PPAUK
Quiz: Can you all of the Guinness Six Nations winning captains?
Our latest quiz invites you to identify those who have captained their nations to Guinness Six Nations glory. It's worth noting that in certain instances, there may be multiple captains from the same year due to factors such as injuries and rotation.
Surnames only will be accepted.
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