Rugby coaches from around the world gathered in Windsor this week for a summit to discuss the future direction of the sport. The meeting included discussions on how the game should be played and officiating standards, with England's coaching staff indicating a potential shift in their team's strategy.
Steve Borthwick, England's head coach, suggested that the team might move away from a focus on running rugby. This potential strategic change comes as England faces challenges, having experienced five defeats in their last seven matches. The team possesses a strong forward pack, including players like Maro Itoje, but is looking to improve its attacking play.
During the summit, discussions also touched upon specific player positions and tactical approaches. The full-back position, for instance, presents a conundrum for England, with consideration given to whether to field a more defensive player like Freddie Steward or a secondary playmaker such as George Furbank. Insights from coaches like South Africa's Rassie Erasmus highlighted the effectiveness of strong centers in exploiting defensive weaknesses, citing Damian de Allende as an example.
England's coaching staff also noted the challenge in selecting the backline, with only Fin Smith and Tommy Freeman seen as consistent options outside of the established forwards. The availability of dynamic players like Manny Feyi-Waboso is tempered by concerns about their injury proneness, a similar issue affecting scrum-half Alex Mitchell. The potential acquisition of players like Dominic Young, who has experience in Rugby League, was also mentioned as a possibility.
The summit aimed to address officiating in the Nations Championship, with coaches providing input to referees on various aspects of the game, including mauls. Coaches also shared observations on other teams, such as Australia's struggles at the fly-half position due to injuries and a lack of creative playmaking options beyond players like Carter Gordon.