Furbank Embraces London Life and Partnership with Smith at Harlequins
The former Northampton player discusses his move to Harlequins, the synergy with Marcus Smith, and the anticipation of facing Saracens.
George Furbank has found the "big city lights" of London to be a welcome change after a decade with Northampton Saints. Since joining Harlequins at the end of last season, Furbank has opted to live nearer to central London, a decision that brings him closer to his partner and old friends, while also offering convenient access to amenities.
On the pitch, Furbank's arrival has coincided with the development of a promising partnership with fly-half Marcus Smith. The concept of a twin playmaker axis featuring two of England's talented players was initially met with some skepticism after a heavy defeat on Furbank's debut. However, the duo has since shown flashes of brilliance.
In a recent match against Sale, Smith's play created an opportunity for Furbank, who then delivered a long pass for a try. Later in the same game, Furbank's quick hands set up a try for Smith. Their understanding was again evident in a Challenge Cup victory over Vannes.
"He's a one-of-a-kind player," Furbank said of Smith. "I think people take him for granted sometimes in terms of the player he can be. The things he can do on a rugby pitch - I don't think many others can do. He's obviously a massive threat with ball in hand and has a great passing game as well, so it's just about trying to understand what he's going to do in certain moments then making my move off that."
Team-mates have noted that playing alongside Smith, who possesses a more unpredictable style compared to conventional fly-halves, offers a different dynamic. Despite some early challenges, the partnership shows signs of developing harmony.
This Sunday, Furbank and Smith will face off against Saracens in a London derby, a fixture that Saracens have amplified with social media taunts, referring to the match as their "cup final." Harlequins have a recent history of performing well against their rivals, securing victories in their last two home encounters.
With the return of prop Fin Baxter bolstering the pack after a long injury layoff, Harlequins are aiming to break a streak of three consecutive league losses. Furbank anticipates a fiery atmosphere, drawing parallels to the East Midlands derbies he experienced with Northampton.
Looking ahead, Furbank, who missed England's summer campaign due to appendicitis and other injuries, expressed his eagerness to be involved with the national team. However, his immediate focus is on club performance, stating, "We're chasing a performance and if we start performing consistently for 80 minutes, we feel the wins will come." Sunday's match against Saracens could be the perfect starting point for that consistent performance.