FIN FRACAS 'NO BIGGIE' FOR MARO

Skipper shuts down talk of splits in camp

- ADAM HATHAWAY

MARO ITOJE has laughed off his on-field ruck with Fin Smith in Italy and denied there are splinters in the England camp.

The skipper lost his cool with the fly-half in the second half of the disastrous 23-18 reverse in Rome when they were rowing over what to do with a penalty.

Smith wanted to kick for a line-out and push for a try, with England 12-10 up, but Itoje forced him to take the points, bawling: "Don't argue with me - take the three."

Jamie George had indicated to Itoje to take the three points on offer and vice-captain Ellis Genge tried to take a quick tap as everyone voiced their opinions and England lost their heads.