England's loss to Scotland at Twickenham has given us plenty of talking points, not least the question of who should be England's starting 10/12 partnership.
There was hope that a new coaching set-up would transform the often clunky on field relationship between Smith and Farrell - but yesterday's game gave little indication of that.
Both men showed their world class ability, Farrell with some textbook defensive reads (particularly on Finn Russell) and Smith produced a moment of magic with his crossfield kick try assist.
However, once again the duo did not seem to get the very best from each other and England's attack looked spluttery at best.
It is important to state that both players are among the world's best fly halves, and this can often get lost in social media criticism, but can Borthwick an his team get them singing from the same hymn sheet or is it a partnership doomed to fail?
Both men are at their best from first receiver, but obviously it is impossible for that to happen. Equally Smith's attacking game is most effective when alongside a strong ball carrying inside center.
On the flip side, Farrell has proven himself time and time again in the No.10 and No.12 shirt for England, so is this a problem sparked by Smith's inclusion rather than anything else.
Here is what supporters and pundits have said on the partnership.
0 Comments