9 months, 4 weeks ago

The key question facing Steve Borthwick set to shape England’s future

Sign up to our free sport newsletter for all the latest news on everything from cycling to boxing Sign up to our free sport email for all the latest news Sign up to our free sport email for all the latest news SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Steve Borthwick will step into the polling booth ahead of England’s tour of Japan and New Zealand with two contrasting, compelling candidates on his ballot paper – for Marcus and Fin Smith, opportunity knocks. open image in gallery Ahead of the tour of Japan and New Zealand, Marcus and Fin Smith were described as ‘world class’ by Steve Borthwick “We’ve picked two specialist fly-halves in Marcus and Fin. “I think he’s been excellent.” open image in gallery Hailed by Borthwick for his ‘consistent performances’, Fin Smith helped Northampton win the Premiership title on Saturday It may also count in his favour how much of the English backline may be Saints drawn. One of the things you have to do is ensure you get the right combinations who have played together either at international level or club level so they have that cohesion.” open image in gallery Expecting to face a ‘talented, fast Japanese team’ the England head coach has named a squad full of pace What is clear from Borthwick’s squad is how he sees the evolving trends of rugby union.

The Independent
England Japan New Zealand Team Japanese Smith Borthwick Marcus Steve Borthwick Northampton Fin Fin Smith
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