England and Harlequins fly-half Marcus Smith has dropped a tantalising hint that he could one day trade the Red Rose for the Philippines, the country of his birth.
The 27-year-old Harlequins playmaker, capped 44 times by England, revealed his ambitions during an “Ask Me Anything” with England Rugby. While he remains fully committed to England, Smith admitted he dreams of one day supporting—and potentially playing for—the Philippines.
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“One day I’d love to help and be involved in Philippine rugby—my brother currently plays for the Philippines,” said Smith. “Right now, my heart and mind are fully with England. It’s a dream to wear this kit.
“But one day that might be different… if the chance comes and my body holds up, it would be amazing to play alongside my younger brothers.”
Born in Manila to a Filipino mother and British father, Smith moved to the UK at eight, where his rugby journey kicked off.
He’s gone on to shine at Harlequins, guide them to a historic Premiership title in 2021, and earn a late call-up to the British & Irish Lions. His dazzling footwork, precision kicking, and creative spark have made him a key figure under Steve Borthwick’s England.
This weekend, Smith is starting at fullback for England against Fiji, showing he remains central to the Red Rose’s plans.
World Rugby rules allow a player to switch nations after a three-year international stand-down, meaning Smith could one day return to his roots once his England career winds down.
With his younger brother already donning the Philippines jersey, could we see Marcus bringing his magic to Manila?
Watch this space.
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Other England internationals who could one day switch nations
Marcus Smith isn’t the only England international with ties to another country. Thanks to World Rugby’s eligibility rules, players can now switch nations after a three-year stand-down period if they qualify through birth, parent or grandparent.
Here are some England stars who could one day follow a different international path.
Jack Willis – Ireland 🇮🇪
The Toulouse back-row qualifies for Ireland through his grandmother. Willis has spent several years playing in France after Wasps’ collapse and, while he has spoken of his desire to play for England again, Ireland would become a genuine option if he completed the required stand-down period.
