Atkinson drafted into England squad after Smith's calf injury

England's coaching staff has reshuffled their training squad after losing key playmaker Fin Smith to injury. The fly-half sustained a calf strain that forced his withdrawal from head coach Steve Borthwick's planned training camp, which was set to run over three days.

With Smith unavailable, the Rugby Football Union moved quickly to draft Charlie Atkinson into the squad as a direct replacement. Atkinson's inclusion ensures the squad maintains adequate depth at the critical fly-half position during the training block.

The injury comes at a potentially sensitive time in the international calendar, though the nature of Smith's calf strain and expected recovery timeline were not immediately disclosed. Borthwick's training squad represents a key preparatory phase for England ahead of upcoming fixtures.

Atkinson's call-up provides him with an opportunity to train alongside the full squad and press his case for future selection. The move highlights the unpredictability of professional rugby, where injuries can rapidly reshape team plans and create opportunities for squad rotation.