Fin Smith: Northampton Saints’ Rising Fly-Half Eyeing England’s No 10 Spot
Debut Success Sparks Ambition
Fin Smith, the rising fly-half star of the Northampton Saints, has set his sights on securing the coveted No 10 spot for the England national rugby union team following his international debut during the Six Nations earlier this year. Having made appearances against Italy and Scotland, Smith, still a mere 21 years old, seeks to make a permanent mark on the international stage.
As reported by BBC Rugby Union on [date], Smith’s ambitions remain steadfast, with his primary objectives for this season already fulfilled: regular game time with the Gallagher Premiership leaders, and earning an England cap. The taste of victory on the international stage has left him yearning for more.
“I am so happy and proud to have got my first couple of caps,” Smith said, his gaze firmly on the future. “Now I have got a taste for it, that has definitely left me hungrier. It (playing for England) is something I am keen to do much more of. The next goal definitely becomes being the guy who is playing every week and driving the team – 100 per cent that becomes a new focus.”
Seizing Opportunities
With former England captain Owen Farrell’s departure for Racing 92, Smith sees an opportunity to rise within the English ranks. However, he acknowledges that his stellar performances for the Northampton Saints have also played a role in his inclusion in the international squad.
“My goals at the start of the season were to play every week for Northampton and get a cap. I’ve done that,” Smith reflected. “From a big picture perspective, I’m sure I’ll look back on this and be delighted with how this season has gone.”
Crucial Premiership Clash
As the season nears its end, Smith looks to secure club-level silverware, aiming to make his season-long achievements truly memorable. In the crucial Premiership clash against Saracens set for Friday, Smith will have the opportunity to go head-to-head with Farrell—a perfect stage for him to demonstrate his skills and determination.
Facing his Saracens counterpart and former England captain in the No 10 role, Smith plans to build upon his international momentum. This battle of the fly-halves promises to be a thrilling contest featuring two of the top talents within English rugby union.
Northampton Saints’ Resurgence
As the Premiership resumed post-Six Nations, both teams experienced contrasting outcomes, with Northampton sustaining a significant 52-point defeat against Bristol and Saracens delivering a crushing 52-point hammering to Harlequins.
Despite their recent struggles, the Saints remain confident, acknowledging the importance of high energy in their performance. Smith, having joined the Saints early following the demise of Worcester in 2022, plays a pivotal role in their resurgence.
Table toppers Northampton seek to assert their dominance at home against third-placed Saracens in front of a sold-out crowd at Franklin’s Gardens. The Smith versus Farrell duel serves as an exciting prelude to a match filled with passion and intensity, exhibiting the enduring appeal of rugby union. Smith, with his sights firmly set on international success, is eager to begin the next chapter of his career and claim the No 10 spot for England.
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