England’s upcoming summer tour to Japan and New Zealand has encountered a setback with the announcement that George Ford will be unable to participate due to an Achilles injury. This development presents a challenge for head coach Steve Borthwick, particularly in the fly-half position.
Ford, a pivotal player for England throughout the Six Nations, played a crucial role in the team’s offensive advancements during the championship. Despite initially being part of the England training squad following Sale Sharks’ Premiership semi-final defeat, it has been determined that Ford will not be fit to take part in the tour due to his Achilles injury.
In light of Ford’s absence, the competition for the No 10 spot now rests between Harlequins’ Marcus Smith and Northampton’s Fin Smith as England commences its tour with a match against Japan on June 22, followed by Tests against New Zealand on July 6 and 13.
Expressing his regret, England head coach Steve Borthwick remarked, “Naturally we’re disappointed that George won’t be with us in Japan and New Zealand, but, following specialist medical advice, and in consultation with George himself, we have decided this is the best course of action. George is a big part of the England team and is an excellent professional who I know will rehab diligently to ensure he gets himself right as soon as he can.”
Following the departure of former captain Owen Farrell from international rugby, Marcus Smith was anticipated to assume the role of England’s starting fly half in the recent Six Nations. However, a calf injury sustained during England’s training camp ruled him out of the early stages of the championship. Consequently, 22-year-old Fin Smith, who led Northampton to their first Premiership title in a decade, is now in contention to fill the role.
In appraising Fin Smith’s potential, Northampton’s director of rugby, Phil Dowson, commended the young player’s maturity and ambition. He emphasized Smith’s determination to continuously improve and his proficiency in leading the team’s attack. “To put the game on his back and to be that playmaker and fulcrum of our attack is huge. We obviously love him. We’ve loved him since we watched him at Worcester. We know what he is capable of and he is only going to get better.”
Amidst George Ford’s absence and the captivating contest for the fly-half position between Marcus Smith and Fin Smith, England’s impending matches in Japan and New Zealand are poised to be compelling. While Ford’s unavailability poses a challenge, it also offers an opportunity for the emerging talents to leave their mark on the international stage.