"Another Aussie" - Favourite to replace England boss Steve Borthwick, his contract won't be renewed
Rugby NewsSunday, 03 November 2024 at 07:12
With Steve Borthwick set to leave his role as England's head coach following the 2027 Rugby World Cup, here’s a look at the top contenders in descending order of their odds:
Following lessons from the extended tenures of Eddie Jones and Sir Clive Woodward, it’s expected that Borthwick will step down from his role after the tournament, even in the event of an extraordinary triumph in Australia, where England could potentially lift the Webb Ellis Cup.
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Rob Baxter – 12/1
The long-serving Exeter Chiefs coach has built a highly successful team, guiding them from the Championship to European champions.
Although Baxter has expressed satisfaction with his role at Exeter, he remains open to discussing the England job. His experience is primarily at the club level, which might be a consideration for the RFU in selecting a national head coach.
Andy Farrell – 10/1
Ireland’s current head coach, Andy Farrell, would be a high-profile option for England, especially given his previous role as their defence coach from 2011 to 2015.
However, he is under contract with Ireland through 2025, and his departure following England’s disappointing 2015 World Cup could complicate a return to the RFU.
Ronan O'Gara – 6/1
The La Rochelle head coach has established himself as a respected leader in European rugby. O'Gara has previously expressed interest in the England role, but he has acknowledged the mental leap required to take on such a high-profile position.
Family considerations and alignment with England’s rugby leadership would be factors in his decision.
Michael Cheika – 5/1
An experienced international coach with stints leading Australia and Argentina, Michael Cheika brings tactical insight and adaptability.
His broad international background would offer England a fresh perspective from outside the English rugby system.
Stuart Lancaster – 2/1
Currently the frontrunner, Lancaster’s successful period with Leinster has boosted his profile since his last tenure as England head coach.
The Racing boss has expressed interest in coaching England again, although he’s also open to opportunities in the southern hemisphere. Lancaster’s RFU experience makes him a familiar and appealing choice for the role.
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Three players England should drop - and who should replace them next weekend
England’s autumn opener started off with a harsh reality check as the mighty All Blacks clinched a 76th-minute try by Mark Tele’a.
The last-minute heartbreaker solidified New Zealand’s dominance over the men in white. Even George Ford’s last-gasp drop-goal attempt, drifting painfully wide, couldn’t change the fate.
Next up: Australia! We look at the changes Steve Borthwick might consider to keep England’s campaign alive.
Ollie Sleightholme for Tommy Freeman – Time to Shine?
Freeman’s high-ball game is usually his superpower, but this time, it was kryptonite. New Zealand thrived in the aerial battles as England’s early game faltered.
Enter Ollie Sleightholme! With form on his side, it’s high time Borthwick gives him the international platform. Could Sleightholme be the shake-up England needs?
Fin Baxter for Ellis Genge – The Young Gun’s Moment
Genge had a tough day at the office, missing two key tackles that led to All Black tries. It’s risky leaving a prop to fend off New Zealand’s speed demons!
Baxter’s debut from the bench showed serious promise. The Six Nations might be the ideal time to start a young talent, but why wait? Baxter could bring fresh energy England needs right now. Joe Marler could also come back into contention.
Fin Baxter of Harlequins before the Gallahgher Premiership match between Saracens and Harlequins at The Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, London on 25 March 2023 (Photo: Micah Crook/PPAUK)
Dan Cole for Will Stuart – The Old Guard Returns
Will Stuart is a beast in the Premiership, but the All Blacks are an entirely different animal. With England’s top prop Kyle Sinckler out, Stuart couldn’t quite fill the shoes.
Dan Cole might be the safer option here; he’s reliable, experienced, and capable of withstanding the All Blacks’ relentless pressure. Back to basics, Borthwick?
Can you name the top 100 mens capped rugby players of all-time?!
Rugby is a sport of grit, skill, and resilience, and it’s the players who endure season after season, test after test, who embody these qualities best. Today, we’re counting down the top 100 men’s capped players in rugby history – athletes whose dedication to their teams has etched their names into the record books.
From powerhouse props to fleet-footed wings, these players have amassed an astonishing number of caps, representing their countries time and again on the world’s biggest stage. Whether they’ve thrilled fans with dazzling runs, anchored the scrum, or inspired with steadfast leadership, each has contributed to the legacy of rugby in unforgettable ways.
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