After yet another enthralling day of action from the Six Nations yesterday, it’s England’s turn to get down to business as they host Italy. Steve Borthwick’s side, eyeing a third-straight win, will be looking to put themselves into a strong position heading into the final round of fixtures. But pressure is on the Red Roses head coach following his decision to drop Marcus Smith for the upcoming clash at Twickenham, with Elliot Daly coming in at full-back while Fin Smith keeps his spot at fly-half.

It is a brave decision from Borthwick, considering Marcus Smith has been his first one choice for the No.10 position since the 2023 World Cup whenever he has been fit enought to play, before he was moved to the full-back position for the thrilling victories over both France and Scotland earlier in the Six Nations.

Borthwick is desperate for a hat-trick of victories to give his side a fighting shot at Six Nations glory; they’ll need two bonus points wins over Italy and then Wales in their final fixture to put the pressure on France.

France have put themselves in a very commanding position for the championship after a statement 42-27 win over Ireland in Dublin yesterday, but their victory was marred following injury to star man Antoine Dupont with fears that he could be set for a lengthy spell on the sidelines.

Meanwhile, Scotland survived a late fightback from Wales to stop their rot thanks to a 35-29 triumph at Murrayield in yesterday’s second match of the day.

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