England is set to face Wales in the upcoming Six Nations game without their star fly-half Marcus Smith, who is still recovering from a calf injury that prevented him from participating in the opening win over Italy. This absence will undoubtedly present a challenge for England as they prepare to host Wales at Twickenham on February 10.
In the narrow victory over Italy, George Ford assumed the fly-half position, with debutant Fin Smith joining the match in the final 14 minutes. With Marcus Smith still sidelined, the team will need to rely on other players to step up.
On a more positive note, Ellis Genge has been included in the 36-man squad and is anticipated to be available for the upcoming match against Wales. Genge, who was unable to participate in the Italy game due to a foot problem, is a crucial component of England’s forward line, and his presence will be pivotal in the anticipated battle against Wales.
Furthermore, Leicester lock George Martin will also join the squad to continue his rehabilitation from injury, bolstering the team’s depth.
The England team has unveiled their squad for the upcoming match, featuring notable players such as Jamie Blamire, Dan Cole, Jamie George, and Maro Itoje in the forwards, and George Ford, Elliot Daly, and Henry Slade in the backs.
Coach Steve Borthwick has expressed optimism about Genge’s availability, stating, “I’d be really hopeful that Ellis is available for next weekend. He trained on Thursday and felt something. He had a scan on his foot on Friday morning. There was a small, acute recurrence of something that happened in the past.”
The absence of Marcus Smith will undoubtedly be felt, but with the depth of talent and the addition of George Martin to the squad, England will aim to put up a strong fight against Wales. The team will look to build on their momentum from the victory over Italy and continue their winning streak in the Six Nations tournament.
The upcoming clash with Wales promises to be an exciting and closely contested match, with both teams eager to prove themselves on the international stage. The Twickenham atmosphere is expected to be electric as fans gear up to witness some top-quality rugby action.
As the countdown to the big game begins, all eyes will be on how England will adapt to the absence of Marcus Smith and how other players will rise to the occasion. The stage is set for an enthralling battle, and rugby enthusiasts around the world will be eagerly awaiting the outcome of this highly anticipated match.