Dad's joy ahead of Fin Smith's first England start

The father of a professional rugby player making his first international start has said he is "thrilled" by the news.

Andrew Smith, father of fly-half Fin Smith, spoke ahead of England's Six Nations match against France, where his son will wear the number 10 jersey.

The 22-year-old, who usually turns out for Northampton Saints, has been selected ahead of the more experienced Marcus Smith who moves to full-back.

Mr Smith said the family were initially sworn to secrecy.

"We're thrilled he's got a chance to show what he can do," he told BBC Radio Northampton.

Smith has made seven international appearances from the bench but will now get his first opportunity in the starting line up - in what will be a massive test for the national side.

He will be joined by three of his Saints teammates, Alex Mitchell, Tommy Freeman, and Ollie Sleightholme.

Mr Smith said his son had always been "very talented" in multiple sports as a child, but his professionalism truly developed after joining Worcester Warriors's academy.

"You could see from an early age he had something special," he explained.

Mr Smith admitted the excitement had been overwhelming: "Neither of us are sleeping very much this week.

"Our nerves are shot, so we might have to have a couple of calming drinks beforehand to get through it."

Despite their pride, the Smith family are traditionally Scotland supporters.

However, Mr Smith joked he might buy an England sock for the occasion.

"We're not quite there [for supporting England] yet, but we'll be cheering [Smith] on madly," he said.

England take on France in the Guinness Men's Six Nations at 16:45 GMT on 8 February.

Follow Northamptonshire news on BBC Sounds, Facebook, Instagram and X.