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Benhard Janse van Rensburg stood down indefinitely; Smith in fitness race

George Ford or Marcus Smith will come in should Fin Smith be unavailable for England's opening Nations Championship match against Australia.

Rugby Pass

Published: Tuesday, 27 October 2026 at 6:33 PM

Key Things to Know

Benhard Janse van Rensburg has been stood down indefinitely following two recent concussions.
Fin Smith is in a fitness race to overcome a calf strain ahead of England's match against Australia.
Steve Borthwick stated Smith will be given until Wednesday to prove his availability.

The Story in 60 Seconds

Bristol centre Benhard Janse van Rensburg has been stood down from rugby indefinitely following two significant concussions in his last three matches. He will miss England's upcoming Nations Championship campaign, with specialist advice requiring weeks of non-contact training before any phased return.

Meanwhile, fly-half Fin Smith faces a race against time to recover from a calf strain sustained while playing for Northampton Saints ahead of England's clash with Australia on November 8. Head coach Steve Borthwick confirmed Smith has until Wednesday to prove his fitness, while George Ford and Marcus Smith remain standby options.

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Benhard Janse van Rensburg stood down indefinitely; Smith in fitness race

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