The England Fly-Half Debate: Fin Smith vs George Ford vs Marcus Smith

The Good, The Bad & The Rugby

Folding Pocket

October 21, 20251 hr 16 min
Rugby

The England Fly-Half Debate: Fin Smith vs George Ford vs Marcus Smith

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Episode Notes

The first major peak of the season is nearly here with the Autumn Nations Series, and the new England squad announcement has delivered two massive headlines: the departure of Tom Willis to France, and the inclusion of teenage try-scoring sensation Noah Caluorie.

But the real debate is at fly-half. From Andrew & Barnes, Wilkinson and his challengers, Farrell to Ford, the England number ten jersey has always been a national talking point. Now, with George Ford, Fin Smith, and Marcus Smith all vying for the starting spot, who will Steve Borthwick hand the keys to ahead of the next World Cup cycle?

Joining Payno this week are two men who know the pressure cooker of fly-half selection better than anyone: former England 10s and World Cup stars Charlie Hodgson (38 caps, Premiership's all-time top scorer) and Toby Flood (60 caps, 2011 Six Nations winner).

Season 6 is Sponsored by Continental Tyres

00:00 🎙️ Introduction  

03:18 🏉 Charlie and Toby’s Rugby Careers  

13:42 💪 Continental Tyres Grip Strength Challenge  

15:40 🌹 Discussion on the new England Squad  

16:50 🌟 Noah Caluori: Rising Star  

22:07 🤔 Debate on England's Fly Half Selection  

31:48 🎯 Owen Farrell's Future  

49:25 🔄 Debating England's Centre Combinations  

55:53 🌍 The Fly-Half Debate in Global Context  

01:04:16 🇫🇷 Tom Willis' Move to Bordeaux  

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