Fin Smith Six Nations 2024 debut would make dream a reality

Fin Smith's parents, Judith and Andrew, along with his brother Angus (right) will be supporting him in Rome

The parents of 21-year-old Northampton Saints rugby star Fin Smith have said playing for England was "what he wanted all his life".

He looks set to make his international debut after being named on the bench for England's opening Six Nations match against Italy in Rome.

The fly-half signed for Saints in 2022 after his previous club Worcester Warriors folded.

His mum, Judith, said representing his country was "Fin's dream".

This season, Cambridge-born Smith has steered the Saints to the knockout stages of the Champions Cup and top spot in the Premiership.

'Gibbering wrecks'

At only 20, he was included in coach Steve Borthwick's Six Nations squad last season but did not make an appearance.

He has been selected as the replacement fly-half in England's tournament opener after Marcus Smith was ruled out by injury.

Fin Smith has been integral to Northampton Saints winning run this season

Ms Smith said: "We are absolutely delighted for him. We are thrilled to bits, very, very proud, but actually so nervous as well.

"But we're not telling him that. It just feels like a huge step but it's what he wanted all his life.

"Since he's been a small boy he's always known exactly what he wants. He follows his own pathway, he has a plan, and he's very confident, and will work towards that plan."

She said the family was excited when Smith was named in the squad but added: "Watching your son play for England, it's going to be absolutely even more amazing."

Both Judith and Smith's dad, Andrew, are from Scotland.

Speaking of his son's debut, he said: "We are very proud Scots, but we're even prouder parents of both Finn and his brother [Angus]."

He said they would "probably be gibbering wrecks" if he makes his debut.

"We've tried not to think about it too much but it's bound to be emotional," he added.

'A huge difference'

Head of rugby at Bedford School James Hinkins said it was good to see Fraser Dingwall "flourishing"

Another Saints player also set to make his England debut is Fraser Dingwall.

The 24-year-old centre was head boy and captain of the rugby team at Bedford School before starting his career at Northampton.

James Hinkins, head of rugby at Bedford School, described him as "a class act".

"He was an outstanding leader. He led by example, the culture he bred in the school was phenomenal and what he built at such a young age," he said.

Fraser Dingwall has risen through the ranks at Saints having started playing at the club aged 14

Mr Hinkins said Dingwall "played all over the place" covering fullback, fly-half and his current position of centre.

"He was always a second ahead of everyone else and he made a huge difference," the teacher said.