Reports this morning have revealed that captain Owen Farrell could be benched by Steve Borthwick for England’s clash with France this weekend.
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On Saturday, March 11, the Twickenham Stadium in London will host the England versus France rugby match, which will begin at 4.45pm (GMT).
Other matches scheduled for the same weekend include Italy versus Wales, aimed at avoiding the last place, at 2.15pm on Saturday, and Scotland versus Ireland at 3pm on Sunday, March 12.
According to The Telegeraph, “it is understood the Harlequins fly-half is primed for a return to the starting XV in place of Owen Farrell’ after his man of the match performance at Twickenham for Quins at the weekend.
Although injury concerns, including a setback to Courtney Lawes, who was expected to lead the team if Farrell was rested, created additional selection considerations, the England management has reportedly been impressed with Smith’s performance in training since his return from his club.
If Smith begins the match, Ellis Genge, one of the two vice-captains, is expected to assume the captaincy for England’s last competitive game at Twickenham before the World Cup in France later this year.
Here is the expected England team to face France this Saturday.
EXPECTED ENGLAND XV:
Back Three
15. Freddie Steward
14. Max Malins
11. Anthony Watson
Centres
13. Ollie Lawrence
12. Henry Slade