Fin Smith will be England’s starting fly-half.
England makes nine significant changes for their next match against Italy in the Six Nations, which will be played in Rome this Saturday.
This restructuring is coach Steve Borthwick’s response after consecutive defeats against Scotland and Ireland, results that frustrated England’s aspirations in the championship.
Jamie George, Alex Coles, Guy Pepper, Ben Spencer, Fin Smith, Cadan Murley, Seb Atkinson, Tom Roebuck, and Elliot Daly will be in the starting team, while Marcus Smith will be on the bench.
The attacking line has been completely renewed compared to the team that lost against Ireland. Spencer and Fin Smith will be the opening halves, replacing Alex Mitchell, who is injured, and George Ford, who was not included in the team.
Fraser Dingwall, Freddie Steward and Henry Arundell were also left out of the starting lineup. Atkinson will partner with Tommy Freeman in the centers, while Murley, Roebuck, and Daly will complete the back three.
Regarding the forwards pack, George will take the hooker position instead of Luke Cowan-Dickie. Ollie Chessum will be among the substitutes, with Alex Coles playing alongside captain Maro Itoje. Guy Pepper returns as blindside, with Henry Pollock on the bench. Ben Earl will celebrate his 50th match with the national team from number 8.
Borthwick has opted for a six-two split on the bench, with Jack van Poortvliet and Marcus Smith as the backs.
We anticipate a great test in Rome and it’s something the players are looking forward to. We know the challenge Italy will present at the Stadio Olimpico, and we have selected a team that we believe will deliver the level of performance we are looking for.
Steve Borthwick
About Earl’s 50th match, Borthwick added:
Reaching 50 caps for England says a lot about Ben’s professionalism and the consistency of his performances. He is an important leader within this group, someone who drives standards and brings energy every day. It’s a wonderful achievement and one he should be very proud of.
