RFU extends Borthwick contract through 2028 despite poor form

Summarised from 3 outlets · Updated 5 Nov, 17:21 · Archive

The RFU has extended Steve Borthwick's contract to 2028 and backed him to lead England into next year's World Cup despite a disappointing Six Nations.

The RFU has extended Steve Borthwick's contract through to the summer of 2028 and given him its backing to lead England into next year's World Cup, regardless of results this autumn.

The decision comes despite England enduring their worst-ever Six Nations campaign earlier this year, which featured a first-ever defeat to Italy. The union also suffered a heavy 45-21 defeat to South Africa in July. Borthwick has faced pressure after five defeats in his last seven matches.

RFU chief executive Bill Sweeney said the union wanted to avoid repeating the scenario that led to Eddie Jones being axed with less than a year before the previous World Cup. "We're committed to Steve, we've extended his contract to the middle of 2028," Sweeney said. "We believe in what he's doing. We had a difficult Six Nations this year, we accept that, but we just want to see continued progress and we're backing him to get that done."

Sweeney added that a thorough review of the Six Nations had identified areas requiring action, which have since been addressed. He said the union is confident this has had an effect. Sweeney indicated he could not envisage a scenario where Borthwick would be replaced, noting that going into a World Cup is "a tough enough challenge anyway".

England have been boosted by fly-half Fin Smith returning to training ahead of an autumn campaign featuring matches against Australia, Japan, New Zealand and a rankings match on the inaugural Nations Championship finals weekend. England are currently ranked fifth in the world.

How it is being reported

• No more excuses, England - Steve Borthwick's side must be bold, brave and adventurous this autumn... or kiss goodbye to their World Cup dreamsTop British sprinter Amy Hunt being in England camp this week felt appropriate - as Steve Borthwick and his players face a 100-metre dash to to set themselves up to win the World Cup.Daily Mail Sport · 5 Nov, 17:03
• Borthwick given RFU backing for World Cup even if England flop in Nations ChampionshipRFU chief Bill Sweeney offers full support to Borthwick England boosted by fly-half Fin Smith returning to training Steve Borthwick has been given the Rugby Football Union’s unequivocal backing to lead England into next year’s World Cup even if the side flop this autumn. In September Borthwick’s contract was extended to after the 2028 Six Nations, despite England’s worst ever Six Nations performance earlier this year, to avoid speculation in the buildup to next year’s tournament. But the head coach remains under pressure on the back of five defeats in the last seven matches. Continue…The Guardian · 4 Nov, 17:00
• RFU explains Steve Borthwick contract decision ahead of World CupBorthwick’s deal has been extended through to the summer of 2028Independent Sport · 4 Nov, 17:00

In this story: Steve Borthwick · Bill Sweeney · England · RFU · Eddie Jones · Fin Smith

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