Smith has suffered a frustrating last 18 months, but he has overcome his injury problems and is now in the frame for a starting place in the midfield against Wales.

While Smith sympathises with the injuries suffered by fellow centres Mike Tindall, Will Greenwood and Stuart Abbott, he feels that he is long overdue a little bit of luck.

''With all the injuries to Mike, Will and Stuart I'm hoping for a starting place,'' Smith said, ''But we'll wait and see when the team is announced next week.''

''But, on the other hand, it's just nice to be involved again after all my injury setbacks and with time on my side, if I can just keep playing well for Leicester, I can hopefully force my way in.''

Having made his test debut back in 2003, Smith has collected just three caps for his country. The presence of Tindall and Greenwood in the England midfield, coupled with shoulder and groin problems, have hampered the 22-year-old's progress.

But he is optimistic that the tide has turned for him.

''The last 18 months have been a bit tough for me and although I feel sorry for the guys currently injured it's my turn to get a chance,'' he admits. ''I know what they're going through, so maybe I'm finally getting that bit of luck, although I'd never wish an injury on anybody.''