18 October 2023 , 10:47
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Marcus Smith was labelled “world class” by Kevin Sinfield as England mulled their options for Saturday’s World Cup semi-final.
The Harlequins fly-half is battling to be fit to face holders South Africa after the heavy blow to the face he suffered playing at fullback in the win over Fiji.
England have yet to decide whether it is wise to play a 5’9 playmaker out of position against the massive Springboks and their clever kicking game - or recall high ball specialist Freddie Steward instead.
But Sinfield insisted the management are thrilled by the progress Smith has made in his two starts in the 15 jersey and fully trust him to deliver if called upon.
“I think we’d all agree Marcus is a world class 10 but last week I felt he was a world class 15 as well,” England’s defence coach said.
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“You’ve got to remember this guy's played 100, 120 minutes as a fullback in Test rugby so far. What he’s done on the training field for us has been outstanding.
School of hard knocks: Fiji's Vinaya Habosi crashes into Smith's face during last Saturday's quarter-final (PA)“If there was any doubt how brave and courageous he is I think you saw it with your own eyes. The bloke got his face smashed and threw his body into tackles. He got it smashed all over the place yet still wants the ball.”
Sinfield hailed the courage of the 24-year old, both in the physical sense but also for putting his hand up to try a different position at a World Cup.
Smith goes off to be patched up and have his head assessed - before returning to fray (PA)“He’s a brave guy and not just because he’s physically tough,” said the rugby league great, who also admitted to being “in awe of the physicality” South Africa brought to their win over France.
“Brave because to be put in like that, and I know he wanted to go for it, but to be put on a world stage in a quarter-final and deliver what he delivered was an absolute credit to him. What a great kid.”