England's Marcus Smith benched for Six Nations clash with Italy

England head coach Steve Borthwick has made key changes to the starting lineup ahead of the Six Nations clash with Italy at Twickenham. Marcus Smith moves to the bench, making way for Elliot Daly to start at full-back.

This decision follows scrutiny over England’s attacking performances in recent narrow victories against France and Scotland.

Daly’s inclusion is expected to bring more stability and attacking creativity to England’s backline, with Borthwick looking to maximize the team’s potential in the final two rounds of the tournament.

Elliot Daly will start at full-back for the first time in four years, having previously featured on the wing or as a utility back. His impactful performances off the bench have convinced the coaching staff that he can offer a fresh attacking spark from deep.

With his pace, vision, and kicking ability, Daly is seen as a player who can help England generate more attacking momentum and create opportunities for the back three.

In another change, Fraser Dingwall replaces Henry Slade at inside centre, increasing Northampton Saints’ presence in the backline alongside teammates Alex Mitchell, Fin Smith, Ollie Sleightholme, and Tommy Freeman.

Dingwall has been in strong form for Northampton and is expected to add defensive solidity and playmaking ability to England’s midfield as they aim for a dominant performance against Italy.

Veteran hooker Jamie George will achieve a major milestone as he earns his 100th England cap. A key leader in the squad, George has been a consistent presence in the front row and will play a crucial role in England’s set-piece dominance.

Borthwick praised George’s dedication, emphasizing his experience and leadership qualities as key assets to the team.

Marcus Smith, who started at full-back against France and Scotland, has now been moved to the replacements, signaling a tactical shift. While his individual talent is undisputed, England’s attack struggled in recent games, prompting Borthwick to explore alternative combinations.

Smith’s presence on the bench offers a dynamic option later in the match, with his ability to unlock defenses and inject pace into England’s attack.

England: 15 Elliot Daly, 14 Tommy Freeman, 13 Ollie Lawrence, 12 Fraser Dingwall, 11 Ollie Sleightholme, 10 Fin Smith, 9 Alex Mitchell, 8 Tom Willis, 7 Ben Earl, 6 Tom Curry, 5 Ollie Chessum, 4 Maro Itoje (c), 3 Will Stuart, 2 Jamie George, 1 Ellis Genge

Reserves: 16 Luke Cowan-Dickie, 17 Fin Baxter, 18 Joe Heyes, 19 Ted Hill, 20 Chandler Cunningham-South, 21 Ben Curry, 22 Jack van Poortvliet, 23 Marcus Smith