Marcus Smith drops to England bench as Daly given nod against Italy

Marcus Smith has been dropped by England for Sunday's Six Nations clash against Italy at the Allianz Stadium.

The Harlequins playmaker was used at full-back for England's wins over France and Scotland, but Elliot Daly comes into the side this weekend.

Daly, who scored the decisive late try for Steve Borthwick's side in the win over France, has not started at full-back for his country in four years.

Borthwick makes three changes in all from the XV that started against Scotland, with Fraser Dingwall and Jamie George also coming in.

Jamie George is set to make his 100th England appearanceHead coach Steve Borthwick has named his match day squad to face Italy at @allianz_stad on Sunday.@O2 | #WearTheRose
— England Rugby (@EnglandRugby) March 5, 2025

Former skipper George starts at hooker on his landmark 100th appearance for England – becoming the seventh player to reach three figures – while Dingwall starts at centre for his first cap in a year.

"Reaching 100 caps is a wonderful achievement that reflects Jamie's talent, dedication and hard work," Borthwick said.

"He has consistently given his all while wearing an England shirt and the team couldn't be prouder of his incredible milestone."

Luke Cowan-Dickie joins Marcus Smith in dropping to the bench, while Henry Slade is absent from the squad altogether.

England sit third in the Six Nations standings heading into the penultimate round of fixtures, four points behind leaders Ireland.

The Red Rose have won all 25 of their Six Nations matches against Italy, making them the only side to hold a 100% win rate against another team in the Championship.