Smith produced many moments of quality over the 2022 Six Nations. This clip, in which he is probably thinking that Itoje has come around the ruck to join Underhill, exemplifies how teammates are still aligning themselves with his instincts. 

England’s phase-play probably looked neater and more structured in the brief cameos that George Ford had during the tournament. Smith will become more assertive for such valuable experience. And England want to be unpredictable, rather than tidy, anyway.

Jones faces fascinating selection decisions for the tour of Australia. Will he find another carrier for his pack? Alfie Barbeary and Jack Willis could well improve that area. 

As for the backline, there will be a fleet of pacey wings available. Raffi Quirke is another option at scrum-half. Marchant has been a source of encouragement.

The minimal use of Ford would suggest that Smith will be England’s number one fly-half going forward. Does Jones keep Smith and Slade together as a midfield axis, with them now having featured together in 10 straight Tests since last summer? 

Could Farrell prove to be a better foil for Smith, bringing shape and direction to allow the latter to pick the ball up in more dangerous positions? Will another centre, such as Dan Kelly, be introduced? It feels like a stick-or-twist scenario.

Whichever way these calls go, England’s attack simply must be more efficient against the Wallabies.  

Match images from ITV