Captain and fly-half clashed during defeat by Italy
‘I think it is a good thing people can express a view’
Maro Itoje has said there are no cracks in the England squad despite his spat with Fin Smith during last week’s humiliating defeat by Italy and believes the confrontation demonstrates the harmony within the camp.
Itoje was heard roaring at Smith “don’t argue with me, take the three,” in the 43rd minute of the defeat in Rome with the fly-half eager to kick to the corner and push for a try with England 12-10 to the good. Ellis Genge, one of two vice-captains, also wanted to go for the try but Jamie George, the other, wanted a kick at goal. Itoje vehemently disagreed with Smith and overruled his No 10, who duly kicked the penalty.
England built an 18-10 lead thanks to another Smith penalty but then unravelled with Sam Underhill and Itoje shown yellow cards as Italy came from behind to secure a famous 23-18 victory. As a result, to avoid their worst Six Nations campaign this weekend England must claim a first away win against France since 2016.
