Marcus Smith, the fly-half for England and Harlequins, has expressed his desire to contribute to Philippine rugby once he concludes his current Test career.
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Born in the Philippines to a Filipino mother and a British father, the 24-year-old spent the first eight years of his life in the country.
According to the current World Rugby eligibility rules, Smith could potentially represent the Philippines after a three-year stand-down period.
During an Ask Me Anything session with England, Smith was questioned about his interest in representing the Philippines.
“One day I’d love to help and be involved in Philippine rugby, my brother currently plays for the Philippines,” the 30-cap England international said.
“Obviously my heart and my mind are fully with England at the minute, it’s a dream of mine to be wearing this kit right now.
“One day that might be different, or when I retire from here, if I get that opportunity, if my body still holds up, it would be lovely to play with both of my younger brothers.”
Ben Youngs’ Six Nations Team of The Tournament:
You can listen to the full latest episode of the podcast by CLICKING HERE.
1. Andrew Porter (Ireland)
2. Dan Sheehan (Ireland)
3. Dan Cole (England)
4. George Martin (England)
5. Joe McCarthy (Ireland)
6. Michele Lamaro (Italy)
7. Tommy Reffell (Wales)
8. Ben Earl (England)
9. Jamison Gibson-Park (Ireland)
10. George Ford (England)
11. James Lowe (Ireland)
12. Bundee Aki (Ireland)
13. Juan Ignacio Brex (Italy)
14. Damien Penaud (France)
15. Monty Ioane (Italy)
“A liability” – Telegraph rank England’s five worst 2024 Six Nations players
Telegraph Sport conducted a thorough assessment of each England player’s performance during the Six Nations, with criticism aimed at several individuals.
One player was labeled a liability, while another is advised to come to terms with the idea that their peak playing days may be behind them.
5 players who underperformed:
#5. Alex Coles – 6/10
Coles is a member of the Premiership outfit Northampton Saints, a club he has been associated with since the age of 13. His journey with the Saints began when he joined their senior academy in the summer of 2017, eventually making his senior debut in November of the following year.
With versatility spanning across the second and back rows, Coles has represented his country from U16 level all the way through to U20, featuring prominently in the U20 Six Nations and the World Rugby U20 Championship.
His impressive performances earned him a call-up to the England senior Men’s squad ahead of the 2022 Autumn Nations Series, where he marked his debut in their narrow 30-29 defeat against Argentina.
They wrote: “A cumulative 15 minutes of action, but it is telling that England opted for no lock replacement in their final two matches.”
RUCK RATING: 6.25/10