MARCUS SMITH HAS kept his place in England’s squad for their Six Nations clash with France after being preferred ahead of George Ford.
Ford has been omitted from the 27-man group retained for the Twickenham showdown on Saturday, pointing to Smith continuing as fly-half cover for Owen Farrell from the bench.
Courtney Lawes’ injury curse has struck again after a shoulder issue ruled him out of the penultimate round of the competition.
Steve Borthwick has retained a 27-player squad for #ENGvFRA 🌹@o2 | #WearTheRose pic.twitter.com/9ozuaqSTPL
— England Rugby (@EnglandRugby) March 7, 2023
The Northampton forward’s season had already been hindered by concussion, neck, glute and calf problems.
Head coach Steve Borthwick names his starting XV on Thursday lunchtime.
