England drop Marcus Smith for Six Nations clash with Italy

LONDON - England have dropped Marcus Smith for a March 9 Six Nations clash against Italy at Twickenham with Elliot Daly replacing him as coach Steve Borthwick makes three changes to the line-up that began the narrow victory over Scotland.

Daly, who scored the winning try in the 26-25 win against France after coming off the bench, is preferred at fullback with Fin Smith retaining his place at flyhalf.

Former skipper Jamie George returns at hooker to earn his 100th cap while Fraser Dingwall will make his first start of the championship at inside centre, replacing Henry Slade.

George will become the seventh England player to reach the century milestone.

Reaching 100 caps is a wonderful achievement that reflects Jamies talent, dedication and hard work, Borthwick said.

Marcus Smith had been Borthwicks first-choice number 10 but was shifted to fullback for Englands last two games in the tournament, thrilling one-point wins against France and Scotland. However, he looked uncomfortable and barely ran with the ball while his defending was targeted by Scotland.

On the decision to drop him, Borthwick said: Its brilliant for England to have such high-quality players. Youll have seen Elliots impact off the bench and Im looking forward to seeing Marcus Smith off the bench against tiring defenders, in space.

Dingwall, who won his last England cap more than a year ago, will be in familiar company in Englands back line. His inclusion means five of the seven backs to start on March 9 will be from Premiership champions Northampton.

Alex Mitchell will continue his half back partnership with Smith, with Ollie Sleightholme on the left wing and Tommy Freeman on the right.

They have all been selected because theyre high-quality and I want them to bring that onto the pitch. Fraser is smart, intelligent and he