Fin Smith's Decisive Role in England's Victory

Fly-half Fin Smith candidly admitted to starting his first Test match "like a rabbit in the headlights" but quickly regained composure to play a pivotal role in England's nail-biting 26-25 victory over France in the Six Nations. His performance was crucial, especially in the dying moments of the game, where he set up Elliot Daly for the winning try and then successfully converted it to secure the win.

The Turning Point

With the clock ticking into the 80th minute, Smith's nerve of steel was on full display as he managed to land two critical late conversions. This not only showcased his skill but also his ability to handle immense pressure. It was his chip-kick that led to a sharp finish by his Northampton teammate Tommy Freeman, highlighting his growing influence on the game.

Overcoming Initial Setbacks

Despite some shaky moments in open play, Smith's resilience shone through. Paul Grayson, a former England fly-half, noted on BBC's Rugby Union Weekly podcast, "His open field kicking needs work, but he grew into the game, and got better the longer he was on the pitch." This ability to adapt and improve under pressure is a hallmark of a potential international star.

Recognition and Praise

The young player's efforts did not go unnoticed, with teammates and coaches alike praising his performance. Elliot Daly commented, "Defensively, he was very good and he led the troops out there. He was physical." Matt Dawson, a former England scrum-half, added, "Watching other players go up to Fin, I saw more of the senior players pretend to bow down to him a little bit. That means quite a lot for someone who is 22 years old."

Looking Ahead

As England prepares to face Scotland in their next Six Nations encounter, the team and its fans are buoyed by this victory. Maro Itoje, England's captain, expressed optimism, stating, "Imagine how good we can be when we add that layer of accuracy on top of this fight." With young talents like Smith stepping up, the future looks promising for England rugby.

This victory not only boosts England's position in the Six Nations but also solidifies Fin Smith's role as a key player for the team, setting the stage for more thrilling performances in future matches.