England rugby international Marcus Smith has made a surprising revelation about his long-term ambitions, expressing his dream to one day represent the Philippines on the international stage.
International ambitions beyond England
The 26-year-old Harlequins fly-half, who earns his 45th cap for England in tonight's Autumn Nations Series match against Fiji, confessed during an 'Ask Me Anything' session with England Rugby that representing his mother's homeland would be "amazing".
Born in the Philippines to an English father and Filipina mother, Smith spent his first eight years in the Asian nation before relocating to Singapore for five years. He eventually moved to the UK at age 13, completing his teenage years in Brighton before embarking on his professional rugby journey.
Family connections and future possibilities
Smith's younger brother Luc already represents the Philippines national team, adding a compelling family dimension to his aspirations. "One day I'd love to help and be involved in Philippine rugby - my brother currently plays for the Philippines," Smith shared.
While emphasising his current commitment to England, stating "Right now, my heart and mind are fully with England. It's a dream to wear this kit," Smith left the door open for future possibilities. "But one day that might be different... if the chance comes and my body holds up, it would be amazing to play alongside my younger brothers."
Immediate focus on Fiji encounter
The talented playmaker has been recalled to Steve Borthwick's starting lineup for tonight's 5:40pm clash at Twickenham, where he'll feature at full-back rather than his preferred fly-half position. This tactical adjustment comes with regular number 15 Freddie Steward sidelined due to a hand injury.
England head coach Borthwick acknowledged Smith's adaptability, praising his development despite "bumps in the road". "I think he's a brilliant player and it's very competitive with the three fly-halves we've got," Borthwick stated. "Marcus has the versatility to play 15 as well and I think he's a top class 15."
World Rugby regulations permit such international allegiance switches, allowing players to represent a different nation after a three-year absence from test rugby. With 44 England caps to his name since his 2021 debut, Smith remains firmly in Borthwick's plans for the foreseeable future.
Tonight's match against Fiji provides another opportunity for Smith to demonstrate his value to the England setup, even as he contemplates an international future that might eventually see him following in his brother's footsteps and representing the country of his birth.
