Jonny Wilkinson picks his England 10 for the 2026 Six Nations

Thursday, 18 December 2025 at 09:53

byRugby Rucker

As England prepares for the upcoming 2026 Six Nations, the fly-half position remains a topic of intense discussion.

Jonny Wilkinson, England’s 2003 World Cup hero, shared his thoughts on the contenders for the No.10 jersey during the Six Nations — and his comments still feel highly relevant.

While George Ford, Marcus Smith, and Fin Smith have all showcased their talents, the potential return of Owen Farrell from injury adds another layer of complexity to the selection picture. However, Ford’s own current injury situation has become a key talking point ahead of the autumn campaign.

With experience, form, and fitness all in play, here’s how Wilkinson ranks the candidates based on current standing:

3.? Marcus Smith – The Game Changer

Club: Harlequins
Age: 26
Caps: 46 (England)

Recent Form:
Marcus Smith continues to be one of the Premiership’s most electric attacking threats for Harlequins. His creativity, acceleration, and improved decision-making have stood out this season, while his goal-kicking consistency has added a more rounded edge to his game.

Smith’s versatility — capable of operating at fly-half or fullback — remains a major asset for England, particularly when chasing games or injecting tempo. While questions around defensive solidity and game control at Test level persist, his current form ensures he remains firmly in contention.

Wilkinson highlighted Smith's potential to invigorate England’s attack, saying:

“We all know that he has so much to offer this new direction for England. We all know his skillset and how much he can energise the team.”

2.? Fin Smith – The Rising Star

Club: Northampton Saints
Age: 23
Caps: 11 (England)

Recent Form:
Fin Smith’s rapid rise continues to impress. At Northampton Saints, he has become a central figure in their structured attacking game, showing maturity beyond his years through calm game management, accurate kicking from the tee, and strong decision-making under pressure.

At international level, Smith has grown increasingly comfortable with responsibility, demonstrating composure in tight matches and an ability to control tempo. His consistency and tactical discipline have strengthened his case as a long-term solution at No.10.

Wilkinson praised Smith’s mindset and adaptability, stating:

“A brilliant opportunity. A great talent. An amazing mindset, and is already starting to push the limits of the league at such a young age.”

1.? George Ford – The Experienced Leader (Injury Cloud)

Club: Sale Sharks
Age: 32
Caps: 102+

Recent Form & Injury Update:
George Ford remains England’s most experienced and tactically astute fly-half, renowned for his game management, kicking accuracy, and leadership under pressure. However, his position heading into the Autumn Internationals is complicated by a current injury issue, which has limited his recent involvement for Sale Sharks.

Ford is dealing with a minor lower-body strain, and while the injury is not considered long-term, it has required careful management and a gradual return to full match fitness. England’s coaches will be monitoring his availability closely in the build-up to the autumn fixtures.

When fit, Ford’s authority and composure remain invaluable — particularly in matches that demand control rather than chaos. His leadership credentials were evident during recent international windows, but his fitness could ultimately influence whether England opt for experience or continuity elsewhere.

Wilkinson believes Ford still has much to offer, saying:

“Ford still has so much to offer. He has this depth and subtle understanding of the game that we've not seen him express that for a while because the team hasn't been firing.