Surprise new frontrunner to replace Steve Borthwick – and his exit date is already set
Rugby NewsFriday, 18 April 2025 at 09:14
The RFU aren’t making the same mistake twice—or in this case, three times. Steve Borthwick remains contracted through to the 2027 Rugby World Cup, and while results have been rocky, England’s bosses are backing him to finish the job. But crucially, there’s no talk of an extension.
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They’ve learned their lessons.
Eddie Jones stayed too long. So did Sir Clive Woodward. Both reigns unravelled in their final years. Now, with Borthwick, the RFU are taking a different approach: back him, but don’t overcommit.
It hasn’t always been smooth sailing. A dull World Cup run. Second-half collapses. Three home defeats to southern hemisphere giants. But this year’s Six Nations offered hope.
They stunned France, edged past Scotland, and found form against Italy and Wales. The back row is firing, and while midfield remains a question mark, England finally look like a side building toward something.
The plan? Stay the course through 2027, then part ways—cleanly. No chaos, no panic.
For the first time in a while, there’s a clear structure off the pitch to match the one Borthwick’s trying to build on it.
We’ve rounded up the leading contenders to take the reins from Borthwick in 2027.
Contenders to Replace Borthwick – Ranked from Long Shots to Favourites
Sir Clive Woodward – 40/1
The king of 2003 ?. Woodward’s still revered for leading England to their only Rugby World Cup win. But in the coaching game, he's been out of the loop since 2005. Still, never say never—his name never quite disappears from the conversation. A nostalgia pick, perhaps?
Phil Dowson – 20/1
The quiet revolution at Northampton ?♂️. Dowson has transformed Saints into a promising side full of energy and ideas. Once a no-nonsense back-rower, he’s now putting the same work ethic into coaching. Will his steady hand guide England in 2027?
Rob Baxter – 18/1
The Exeter wizard ?♂️. Baxter has taken the Chiefs from underdogs to European kings. His long commitment to Exeter might be his greatest strength—but could the call of the national job be too hard to ignore when 2027 rolls around?
Michael Cheika – 15/1
The Australian maverick ??. Known for his fiery temper and aggressive approach, Cheika made waves with Australia in 2015. Now with Leicester Tigers, he’s added more silverware to his collection. England could use some of that passionate intensity, right?
Ronan O’Gara – 10/1
The tactical genius ?. O’Gara has worked his magic with La Rochelle, leading them to back-to-back European titles. With his sharp mind and the ability to turn teams into winners, could the former Ireland fly-half be the next head coach of England?
Stuart Lancaster – 7/1
The redemption story ?. Lancaster took England to the 2015 World Cup quarterfinals but was then shown the door. Since rebuilding Leinster into a European powerhouse, he’s proved his worth. Could a return to Twickenham be in the cards for him?
Shaun Edwards – 5/1
The defensive mastermind ?️. Edwards has been instrumental in France’s resurgence and Wales’ success, with his defensive systems being his trademark. If he wants to come home and lead England, the timing could be perfect after 2027.
Andy Farrell – 3/1
The frontrunner ?. From guiding Ireland to a Grand Slam and World Number 1 status to preparing for the British & Irish Lions in 2025, Farrell has created a legacy that only seems to be growing. He’s the man everyone expects to take over at Twickenham—and the odds are stacked in his favour.
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You’ll have to be red-hot to get 15/15 in this 2010s Six Nations quiz
The Six Nations Championship, Europe’s premier rugby tournament, has delivered unforgettable moments and showcased some of the game’s greatest players.
From stunning tries to epic battles, the 2010s were packed with rugby brilliance.
Can you name the players who lit up the tournament during this golden decade? You’ll need to be on top form to get 15/15—are you up for the challenge? Let’s kick off!
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