"Most likely, the Six Nations will be won in the head, hands and feet of a No 10"

Three of the great fly-halves are missing from this Six Nations, which means change is afoot for England, Ireland and Wales. Stephen Jones looks at the men set to play ten

- STEPHEN JONES

RUGBY IS always changing, priorities differ from era to era, and what the sport demands of players changes in emphasis. But the real truths of the game are permanent. For me, now and always, the key position on the field is fly-half. Most likely, the Six Nations will be won by someone wearing ten and in the head, hands and feet of the wearer.

Granted, the role of the scrum-half has changed hugely, the poor bloke or poor woman has so many decisions to make when the ball comes back – but you still feel everything revolves around the ten to add shape and focus.

The discussion on fly-halves is particularly relevant this year because major changes are afoot. Johnny Sexton and Dan Biggar, the two most influential players for their respective nations for many seasons, will not be there. Owen Farrell is not available, perhaps for a season, perhaps for good. So sad – the fact he’s had to depart to save the stress on him and his family is the biggest black mark that rugby has had.

The misguided adherence to the fortunes of Marcus Smith would not do England any lasting good, and it is blindingly obvious that barring some kind of selectorial aberration, George Ford will be back as England’s fly-half – Fin Smith of Northampton is the most likely emerging player. Who knows, the fact that Ford would then have the position to himself, rather than being continually shunted this way and that with Farrell, might be to his liking. He is as sharp as a needle and at his best can influence the whole team.

Perhaps it’s time for England’s midfield to settle down and to find harmony. It’s been a long time since there was an established partnership of men in form.