Max Malins is, all things considered, an unlikely wing-man. Considered among the most promising fly-halves in the country as a teenager in Saracens’ academy, and latterly a creative, canny full-back, the 25-year-old did not make his first Premiership appearance out wide until May of last year while on loan at the Bristol Bears after his parent club’s relegation to the Championship.
Yet with Jonny May and Anthony Watson injured, on the wing Malins finds himself for England’s Six Nations opener at Murrayfield with a crucial role to play. Eddie Jones has liked to have a wing in his back three capable as a ball-handler to help broaden the attack, particularly since the arrival of attack coach Martin Gleeson. Interchangeability is also a key to Gleeson’s new multifarious system - England wish to be present versatile pictures to the opposition, and Malins fits the bill.
