Itoje says "there’s no crack" after an on-field spat with Fin Smith during England’s 23-18 Six Nations loss to Italy. For punters, the incident and England’s three-game slide suggest caution: markets may favour France in Paris and shift value toward in-play and prop markets (points totals, penalty/goal props) rather than backing England outright.
Itoje denies leadership rift after heated Italy clash
Maro Itoje has dismissed suggestions of a split in England’s leadership group after a visible disagreement with fly-half Fin Smith during the 23-18 Six Nations defeat to Italy at the Stadio Olimpico in rugby. The Saracens second row and British and Irish Lions skipper insisted there is “no crack” and stressed the exchange was a routine, if emphatic, on-field debate.
What happened on the pitch
Early in the second half, Itoje, Smith and vice-captains Ellis Genge and Jamie George debated whether to kick a penalty at goal or set up an attacking line-out. The moment ended with Itoje shouting at Smith: “Don’t argue with me. Take the three.” Itoje later downplayed the incident, saying the players even shared a laugh on the pitch afterwards.
Player reaction and leadership context
“It’s not a biggie,” Itoje said, underlining that strong relationships allow for frank conversations. He added that he welcomes input from key decision-makers, particularly whoever wears the 10 shirt. Itoje joked that he “didn’t really lose it,” and framed the episode as the sort of blunt sporting exchange common in elite squads.
Heading to Paris: team news and selection
England arrived in Paris after a short training camp in Verona. Head coach Steve Borthwick made one personnel change for the Stade de France showdown, selecting Ollie Chessum at blindside flanker with Sam Underhill dropped to the bench. The selection signals a tactical tweak as England attempt to arrest a three-Test losing run.
Borthwick’s standing and upcoming tests
The Rugby Football Union issued a vote of confidence for Borthwick following the Italy defeat. The head coach now faces a pivotal period, with the upcoming France fixture and the summer tour seen as key tests ahead of long-term preparations for the 2027 World Cup.
Implications for bettors and market movers
England’s visible tension combined with a three-game slide is likely to influence betting markets.
Expect bookmakers to favour France in Paris and for value to move away from England match-winner bets toward alternatives: in-play opportunities, points-total lines, and specific prop markets (penalties, first-half scores).
France vs England: Steve Borthwick makes one change in bid to avoid worst-ever Six Nations
Punters should watch team selection and early match tempo for sharper in-play angles.
Mirror
