Here, Lions legend Sir Ian McGeechan spins through three possible candidates to replace Owen Farrell as England's next number 10.
All three were included in McGeechan's top 10 young players in the world.
1. MARCUS SMITH (Harlequins)
McGeechan said: "Smith’s progression from Brighton College 1st XV to the Harlequins 1st XV was rapid and well-timed, with Nick Evans stepping back to coach.
"I have watched a lot of him. He never looks flustered on the ball, which is the hallmark of a great player and he has been in and around the England squad without yet being capped. But one to watch, certainly."
2. JOE SIMMONDS (Exeter Chiefs)
McGeechan said: "Probably the closest of the English players on this list to an international call-up. Simmonds has quietly become an excellent fly-half with consistently good decision making and plays well under pressure.
"His kicking is incredibly accurate – there was a stage before Christmas when he was 26/26 in all competitions – and he has a great coaching group around him, with Rob Baxter and Ali Hepher, who I know well and really rate from our Northampton days."
3. JAMES GRAYSON (Northampton Saints)
McGeechan said: "Another chip off the old block. Paul Grayson, his father, was one of my favourite players to coach – just a very clever, tactical player.
He and I used to have long conversations about what we wanted to do out on the pitch, either one-on-one or with Matt Dawson as well. And when I watch James play I can almost imagine the conversation he has had with his dad."
