Scotland vs England: Breaking down the Finn Russell vs Marcus Smith fly-half battle
Scotland tackle England at Murrayfield on Saturday
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Scotland and England will resume international rugby’s oldest rivalry when they clash in the Guinness Six Nations at Murrayfield on Saturday.
Here we examine a key battle that will help shape the outcome as playmakers Finn Russell and Marcus Smith go head to head.
Finn Russell – Racing 92
Position: Fly-half
Age: 29
Caps: 58
Debut: vs USA, 2014
Height: 6’0”
Weight: 13st 7lbs
Points: 201 (Tries 7)
The international game’s most creative fly-half, Russell has the individual brilliance to single-handedly take the opposition apart.
Transformed the Lions’ attacking game when he came on early in the decisive final Test against South Africa last summer. Has so much range to his kicking and passing games and stands flat to the line, enhancing his effectiveness in attack.
But, for all his skills, he can be prone to making costly errors on the occasion his instincts betray him.
Marcus Smith – Harlequins
Position: Fly-half
Age: 22
Caps: 5
Debut: vs USA, 2021
Height: 5’6”
Weight: 12st 9lbs
Points: 63 (Tries 2)
Described by England team-mate Ben Youngs as mirroring Russell in possessing a repertoire of big plays and the composure to execute them at the key moment, Smith fully justifies the hype that has accompanied his development.
While his vision and attacking skills have always stood out, the greatest improvement has been in his game management. And despite his size, he is a fighter who keeps going until the final whistle.
Where he and Russell deviate significantly, however, is in experience. Smith proved in the autumn that he belongs at this level, the challenge now is to deliver on that consistently.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments