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Harlequins 'disgusted' by comments made about Marcus Smith
By Ian Cameron
Harlequins have said that they are 'disgusted by comments made about flyhalf Marcus Smith during a recent rugby podcast discussing the Lions tour.
The remarks in question were made by former Ireland second-row Neil Francis during the popular Left Wing podcast, hosted by Luke Fitzgerald. Smith, who is of mixed Filipino and British heritage, recently flew out to South Africa as injury cover for Finn Russell and could yet play a role in the Test series.
The panel were discussing the merits of Smith potentially being involved in the Test series and the typically outspoken Francis was asked to give his opinion on the matter.
"I don't think they could throw him in," said Francis. "A Harlequins outhalf with a David Beckham haircut and an Oompa Loompa tan... you just couldn't throw him in."
The comments have been heavily criticised on social media today, with many on Twitter accusing Francis of racism, although it's not clear that the former forward was aware of Smith's mixed-race heritage.
Both Harlequins and the Lions have publically stated that they've contacted the newspaper over the comments. “Harlequins is disgusted by offensive comments made by an Independent.ie columnist regarding Harlequins fly-half Marcus Smith and await a reply regarding the matter,” said a Harlequins spokesperson today.
Tim Percival, spokesperson for the British & Irish Lions, Tweeted: "We find the remarks relating to Marcus Smith offensive and have written to the Independent to express our deep dissatisfaction."
England winger Joe Cokanasiga tweeted: “Oompa loompa tan” ???!! Idiot"
Smith, who was born in Manila, won his first England cap against the USA two weeks ago and has been enjoying a stellar season with Harlequins, guiding the club to their first Gallagher Premiership title since 2012.
"I’ve been following him closely for the past 12 months and I’ve been impressed with how well he’s matured as a player," said Lions head coach Warren Gatland when calling up Smith. "Finn and Marcus are similar in that they like to play with a bit of freedom, so, for me, it’s as close to a like-for-like cover as we can get. We look forward to welcoming him to the group in Cape Town."
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Latest Comments
Can see why you have doubts about Harry Wilson, J. However, I do see signs of him moving towards a Vermeulan style 8th man. Strong carries from deep runs, but still tends to lose the ball in contact. His work in tandem with McReight is a big factor in his favour. What I would be interested to see is a starting backrow of McReight, Wilson and Uru, Valetini the power carrier of the bench around 50 min mark.
Go to commentsYes it was just written as a joke but Ireland beating NZ certainly put a target on them. I was desperate for NZ to play Ireland come 1/4 final time and it was definately one of the sweetest wins for some time. The most pleasure is gained when the opposition publicly disrespects you and Ireland players did that. Revenge was sooooo sweet.
Maybe you are right. Maybe all teams should just send B teams for every test match now, just in case the opposition gain IP.
The one clear thing from watching French world cup squads is that they argue with each other when in a touring type situation. Thats because they arnt used to being on tour together. Thats their failing and probably a decent part of why France dont win world cups.
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