He gave me a bit of a slap – Fin Smith hails Matt Sherratt’s influence on career

The England fly-half is indebted to the Wales boss for his advice and guidance.

England fly-half Fin Smith has thanked Wales boss Matt Sherratt. Pic: Mike Egerton/PA

England fly-half Fin Smith will always be grateful for the “bit of a slap” Matt Sherratt gave him and the influence the Wales boss had on kick-starting his career.

Smith and England head to Cardiff on Saturday, where victory over Wales would keep Steve Borthwick’s team in Six Nations title contention ahead of tournament favourites France tackling Scotland.