"On the ropes" - Steve Borthwick’s future had already been decided before World Cup

This was primarily due to the Rugby Football Union (RFU) being presently unable to afford the substantial £3 million payout required to terminate his contract.

As one high-ranking source told the Mail Online, "After paying Leicester something like £500,000 compensation to get Borthwick last year, on top of huge severance [pay of about £1.4 million] for [former coach] Eddie Jones, there's no appetite to sack Borthwick. It would be too expensive." Another source added,

"The RFU is on the ropes financially. They are expecting to suffer huge losses over the next couple of years."

The prospect of dismissing Borthwick and his coaching staff in the event of a disappointing World Cup campaign would have proven to be a costly one, potentially reaching a staggering £3 million. Given the significant expenses already incurred, such as the £500,000 compensation paid to Leicester to acquire Borthwick's services and the approximately £1.4 million severance package for former coach Eddie Jones, there was a notable reluctance within the RFU to part ways with Borthwick. The financial burden of such a decision was simply too substantial to bear.

Interestingly, despite these financial constraints, the RFU was offering its players potentially larger bonuses for success at the World Cup than any other governing body. In the unlikely event that England emerged victorious in France, each player stood to receive a considerable RFU bonus of approximately £212,000.

This figure surpassed the bonuses offered by other federations, with the French team expected to receive around £172,000 per player for a victory, while New Zealand and Australia's players could see bonuses of up to £100,000 from their respective federations in case of triumph.

However, support for Borthwick had greatly improved as he guided the team to the World Cup semi-finals.

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The flanker is a former English rugby union player who captained the national team from 2012 to 2015.

Known for his exceptional work rate and leadership skills, Robshaw was a dynamic flanker who made a significant impact on the field. He enjoyed a successful club career with Harlequins, where he played for over a decade. Robshaw's dedication and commitment to the sport earned him numerous accolades and the respect of his peers.

Off the field, he is admired for his philanthropic efforts, using his platform to support various charitable causes.

Owens said: "Some people will be surprised at this one to start off. His misfortune was perhaps to be leading England during a difficult time, but he always gave everything for the cause, encouraging others to follow suit, and he was a nice guy off the pitch."

He is a retired South African rugby union player who made a lasting impact on the international stage.

As a versatile back, he showcased his skills and leadership abilities as the captain of the Springboks from 2012 to 2015.

De Villiers' playing career spanned over a decade, during which he exhibited exceptional athleticism and a powerful presence on the field.

He was widely respected for his tactical knowledge, unwavering commitment, and ability to inspire his teammates.

De Villiers remains an influential figure in the rugby world and continues to contribute to the sport through coaching and commentary.

Owens said: "He was not only a great rugby player but also a great leader and a great man. Whenever I came across him on the field, he impressed me."

McCaw is a legendary New Zealand rugby union player widely regarded as one of the greatest openside flankers in the history of the game.

The flankers career was defined by his exceptional skills, relentless work rate, and unparalleled leadership abilities.

He captained the All Blacks to back-to-back Rugby World Cup victories in 2011 and 2015, solidifying his status as a true icon of the sport.

Known for his ability to win turnovers and dominate the breakdown, McCaw's impact on the game was immeasurable. Beyond his playing career, he continues to be an influential figure, inspiring future generations of rugby players.

Owens said: "He’s right up on any list of rugby’s greatest players.

"Maybe he will be at the top for many people.

"New Zealand won something like nine out of every 10 games in which he led them, but the mark of Richie McCaw was how he conducted himself when the All Blacks lost."

O'Connell is a former Irish rugby union player known for his towering presence and exceptional leadership skills.

As a lock, he captained Ireland and the British and Irish Lions, leading them to memorable victories. O'Connell's fearless competitiveness and humility made him a respected figure in the rugby community.

Meanwhile, O'Driscoll is an iconic Irish rugby union player and one of the greatest centres in the game's history.

His exceptional skill set, speed, and agility made him a constant threat on the field. O'Driscoll captained both Ireland and the British and Irish Lions, leaving a lasting legacy in the sport.

Owens said: "I’m classing this as a joint-ticket as whenever I seemed to ref Ireland in their day O’Driscoll was captain and O’Connell was vice-skipper.

"O’Driscoll actually used to tell me if there were issues with the forwards then I should chat to O’Connell.

I found them excellent to deal with."

Dusautoir is a retired French rugby union player renowned for his incredible defensive skills and fearless tackling. As a flanker, he captained the French national team from 2009 to 2015 and was a key figure in their formidable defense.

The flankers physicality, tenacity, and ability to disrupt opponents' play made him a formidable force on the field. He earned numerous accolades throughout his career, including the prestigious World Rugby Player of the Year award in 2011.

Dusautoir's leadership and dedication to the sport have left a lasting legacy, inspiring aspiring rugby players around the world.

Owens said: "My choice as the best skipper I encountered may raise a few eyebrows, but what a captain Dusautoir was.

"He unfailingly put his body on the line throughout his career — recall the 38 tackles he made when France knocked the All Blacks out of the 2007 World Cup — led by example and understood the game very well."