'Complete player' Fin Smith labelled best 10 in England by Springboks

Former South Africa head coach Nick Mallett has described Northampton Saints fly-half as the “complete player”, with former Springbok Robbie Fleck adding that he is the best fly-half in England currently.

The battle between the Smiths, Northampton’s Fin and Harelquins’ Marcus, is one that picked up pace in 2024 and is only going to intensify over the coming years.

Marcus ascended to become England’s starting fly-half this year, but the 22-year-old Fin is hot on his heels.

Following his performance against the Bulls at Loftus Versfeld in round two of the Investec Champions Cup, where Northampton came away victors, both Fleck and Mallett were impressed by Fin, with the former centre asserting that he is the best fly-half in England.

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Joining a recent episode of RugbyPass TV’s Boks Office, the pair discussed the differences between the two players, primarily that Marcus creates opportunities for himself, while Fin creates opportunities for others. Mallett liked the Saint to a former player of his, and team-mate of Fleck’s, Henry Honiball, who is “always looking to draw attention and create space for other people.”

That, of course, does not diminish Marcus’ ability, who may be better served at full-back based on their analysis- something that Steve Borthwick will likely explore in 2025. Indeed, Fleck, who has previously been a critic of Marcus, described the 39-cap Englishman as “outstanding”.

Mallett even complimented Fin’s defensive game, saying “he can certainly defend that channel.”

“Look, Marcus Smith was outstanding in the international arena,” Fleck said.

‘He’s a star player who creates opportunities for himself. But when you look at a Fin Smith, he’s the complete 10 for me, a young 10 coming through. He’s learning a lot from Marcus Smith and they both help each other, but that guy’s got the complete game, he’s an outstanding young fly-half.”

Mallett added: “A top fly-half creates for players outside him. He’s not looking for himself. It’s when it opens up that he takes the chance. He’s always looking to draw attention and create space for other people- he does that.

“I get the feeling that Marcus is looking for a little sidestep and a little show-and-go and if it’s not on then he passes. I think Fin Smith is more Henry Honiball than Marcus.”