Among the most pertinent lessons from England’s 10-match run of successive Test victories is this: Steve Borthwick does not mind if things seem unconventional, as long as they are effective. Three ...

Marcus Smith can become a better full-back than fly-half according to the England assistant coach Kevin Sinfield who says that it would be a missed opportunity to throw the experiment “in the bin”.

There are not many England players currently on the circuit whose name and identity transcend the sport. Maro Itoje, perhaps – but, even then, the captain might not be considered a household name.