Borthwick's Critical Decision: Unleashing Marcus Smith to Revive England's Faltering Attack
Marcus Smith managed a mere six minutes off the bench during England's disappointing defeat in Rome, a stark illustration of his diminished role under head coach Steve Borthwick. As England prepares to face France, with Smith set to earn his 50th cap, doubts persist about Borthwick's confidence in the Harlequins fly-half, raising questions about the team's direction and the coach's future.
England's Image and Imagination Crisis
Borthwick is expected to defend England's performance, potentially the worst Six Nations campaign if they lose to France, by citing issues like discipline and injuries. However, the core problems are twofold: image and imagination. England risk being labelled as dull and predictable, especially if France out-kicks them, yet when they regain possession, their attack lacks creativity. In contrast, France dazzles with fluid play, highlighting England's shortcomings.
The image issue extends to Borthwick personally, as many supporters view him as overly conservative, applying a restrictive gameplan that has worsened during the tournament. Unlike the 2024 campaign, where England showed thrilling form with wins like against Ireland, recent matches have seen no such liberation, with Borthwick doubling down on a kicking strategy that stifles innovation.
Marcus Smith's Decline and Potential Redemption
Smith was instrumental in England's past successes, including a memorable drop goal against Ireland and a spirited comeback against France, earning fan admiration. Yet, his status has plummeted, with minimal playing time against Italy underscoring his fringe role. Despite being a marketable figure for the team, his talents remain underutilised, echoing past suggestions that his selection might be influenced by political factors within the Rugby Football Union (RFU).
Borthwick's hesitation to trust Smith could be costly, as learning to rely on him might secure his job. A historical parallel exists: in 2018, Eddie Jones saved his position by turning to Danny Cipriani during a crisis, a tour where Borthwick served as assistant coach. This precedent suggests that bold changes, including empowering Smith, could alter England's fortunes.
Empowering Attack Coach Lee Blackett
Another key issue is the limited influence of attack coach Lee Blackett, who reportedly gets as little as five minutes in some training sessions to develop offensive strategies. This constraint explains England's inefficiency in the opposition 22s throughout the tournament. Ben Spencer, Bath captain, offered an unconvincing response when asked why Blackett's methods haven't translated to the Test arena, hinting at deeper systemic problems.
Borthwick has been backed until the summer, but a heavy defeat by France might force RFU chief Bill Sweeney to act sooner. With upcoming fixtures against South Africa, Fiji, and Argentina, Borthwick must demonstrate progress to retain his role through to the 2027 World Cup. Sweeney's commitment to the Nations Championship, a flagship project, means he cannot afford toxicity at Twickenham, especially with significant ticket sales at stake.
Conclusion: A Political and Practical Imperative
To salvage England's campaign and his own position, Borthwick must grant Blackett greater autonomy and reintegrate Smith into the starting lineup. This move could inject much-needed colour into a monochrome attack, resonating with fans and improving results. If this resembles the political decisions Eddie Jones referenced, so be it—Borthwick must embrace the political aspects of his role to inspire future generations and meet RFU expectations.
