"Give Smith the keys" - Three England stars who failed to perform against Australia – and who should replace them

Rugby News
Saturday, 13 November 2021 at 20:12
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RUCK Editor-In-Chief Steve Smith picks three players who he thinks deserve a chance in the England XV against South Africa after some stars failed to impress against Australia.

#1. Sam Underhill (replaced by Alex Dombrandt)

The Bath flanker has been unable to overcome his struggles domestically to hit top form for his country and departed early for the second week in a row after missing FOUR tackles. This move would see Tom Curry, who has not shone at number 8, refer back to his normal position on the flanker with Dombrandt taking the eight shirt. The Harlequins powerhouse made a significant impact off the bench, making more metres (35) in five minutes than Underhill did in 60.
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Alex Dombrandt of England warms up before the Autumn Nations Match between England and Australia at Twickenham on 13 November 2021. Photo: Micah Crook/PPAUK

#2. Owen Farrell (replaced by Max Malins)

Described this week as 'undroppable', but the England captains inclusion in the team really did upset the balance with youngster Marcus Smith playing second fiddle and Manu Tuilagi looking lost out wide. His goal-kicking wasn't bad, but that was about the only positive from Farrell. Bringing Malins on the wing will give Jones' men better width as they look to unlock the Springbok defence next Saturday. Give Smith the keys already Eddie!
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Owen Farrell of England warms up before the Autumn Nations Match between England and Australia at Twickenham on 13 November 2021. Photo: Micah Crook/PPAUK

#3. Bevan Rodd (replaced by Mako Vunipola)

It's time for Jones to put pride aside and put in an SOS call to the Saracens man. With Ellis Genge and Joe Marler unavailable, England will need all the experience and power they can get as they come up against a monstrous Springbok pack next weekend. Rodd did well enough at times, but he isn't a good enough scrummager at present for such a tall task.
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Mako Vunipola of England during the Autumn Nations Cup match between England and Ireland at Twickenham Stadium, Twickenham, London on November 21 2020. - PHOTO: Phil Mingo/PPAUK

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