"Can't defend" - 5 stars who underperformed in the fourth round of the 2023 Six Nations - Page 2 of 3 - Ruck

“Can’t defend” – 5 stars who underperformed in the fourth round of the 2023 Six Nations

#3. Niccolo Cannone (Italy)

Planet Rugby 5/10: A quiet performance from the second-rower. Conceded a penalty, missed a few tackles and had little success with the ball in hand.

“There was a step up when Edoardo Iachizzi replaced him.”

Embed from Getty Images

#4. Marcus Smith (England)

Rugby Pass 3.5/10: “Looked confused from the off, disorientation summed up by his head-scratching punt after England win a free at a scrum. That gave the French a soft mark to clear from their 22.

“His puzzled effort continued right the way through on a miserable evening capped by that gaffe of not touching down behind his line, allowing Ollivon to burgle his second try.”

Telegraph 5/10: “A promotion too soon? Probably. Solid enough in front of the uprights but gifted too many kicks to the waiting arms of Ramos and struggled to manipulate space.”

Marcus Smith of England during the Guinness Six Nations match between England and France at Twickenham Stadium, Twickenham, London on Saturday 11th March 2023 | Photo: James Fearn/PPAUK.

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