Controversial favourite to replace England boss Steve Borthwick
Today at 06:46 AM
When England wrapped up last year's Six Nations with an emphatic victory over Ireland and a narrow, hard-fought defeat to France, even the most skeptical fans wouldn’t have predicted the nosedive to follow.
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Fast-forward to 2025, and England have managed just two wins in their last seven matches – both against Japan. It's a grim statistic for a side with lofty ambitions, leaving fans frustrated and the rugby world asking, what's gone wrong?
"Short on wins, long on questions"
Be it bad luck, poor composure, shaky game-management, or a cocktail of all three, England now find themselves at a crossroads. Wins are scarce, the pressure is mounting, and whispers of discontent are growing louder.
Despite the rocky results, sources close to RUCK.co.uk reveal that the RFU remains steadfast in its support for head coach Steve Borthwick. For now, at least, the former Leicester Tigers boss isn't facing any ultimatums.
"Borthwick: No distractions, no excuses"
In his own words, Borthwick appears unfazed by the external noise. "At this point before the start of the tournament, why would we not be going into every game aiming to win every game?” he told BBC Sport.
“It's what every England supporter would expect of me and the players, and it's what we expect of ourselves.”
The under-fire coach also dismissed claims of behind-the-scenes pressure from his bosses. “Ever since I have come into this role two years ago, I have had nothing but support from the RFU about what we want to do.”
As the countdown to the Six Nations begins, Borthwick insists the team is laser-focused on turning things around. “Our focus is about the Six Nations that is coming up, and how we get the performances and results we want to get.”
For Borthwick and his squad, the Six Nations represents a chance for redemption. But with confidence dwindling and fans growing restless, only time will tell if England can find their winning edge.
The Eddie and Clive approach
The RFU appears to be sticking to a long-term strategy, inspired by the extended tenures of Eddie Jones and Sir Clive Woodward. While speculation swirls about Borthwick's future, it's believed he will remain in charge through the 2027 Rugby World Cup, regardless of England's performance in Australia.
Who’s next for England?
As pressure mounts, the bookmakers have released odds for the next England head coach, and there's a surprise favourite emerging from the pack.
- Sir Clive Woodward – 40/1
- Phil Dawson – 20/1
- Rob Baxter – 18/1
- Andy Farrell – 15/1
- Ronan O'Gara – 10/1
- Stuart Lancaster – 7/1
- Michael Cheika – 2/1
Could Michael Cheika, the controversial Aussie, be the shock appointment to lead England into a new era? For now, the RFU is betting on Borthwick—but patience is wearing thin.
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QUIZ: Can You Name Every England Six Nations Captain (2000 – 2024)
Today, we pose you the challenge of naming all 20 previous England captains, that have led the country in the modern Six Nations Championships.
From 2000 to today, some of these captains only led the side for a handful of matches, whilst others had numerous campaigns under the belt.
Good luck, your time starts now!
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