England's rugby team is facing a period of significant underperformance, drawing comparisons to a "tribute act" of its former self. Following five consecutive defeats, including a substantial 45-21 loss to South Africa, head coach Steve Borthwick has acknowledged the "gap" between the current squad and the team's required level.
During the match against South Africa, prop Ellis Genge remarked that his team had "no answers" for the double world champions for about 60 minutes, despite feeling they were "all over" their opponents. Borthwick, however, admitted the Springboks "definitely edged us" at the breakdown, highlighting the need for substantial improvement.
Despite the recent results, the squad possesses talent, as demonstrated by a strong performance against France in the Six Nations where England matched their opponents in intensity and offloads. A key challenge identified by a Premiership coach is not a lack of ability, but instilling self-belief in the players, moving away from excessive analysis.
Tactical and Disciplinary Issues
One area of concern highlighted in the South Africa match was England's inability to disrupt the opposition's breakdown, with the Springboks winning 98 out of 98 rucks on their own ball. This suggests a need for improvement from players like Ben Earl and Tom Curry. The upcoming match against Fiji offers an opportunity for players like Guy Pepper to make an impact at the breakdown and in aerial contests.
England's set-piece remains a strength, and they are favored to win against Fiji, a team they have historically dominated. However, a loss or a unconvincing win against Fiji could further diminish Borthwick's standing, especially after a previous defeat to the Pacific Islanders. Captain Jamie George acknowledged the team's struggle with discipline, a recurring issue that led to two yellow cards against South Africa.
George stated that the team has had "really good conversations" about their performance and the need to "stay tight." He emphasized learning from opponents like South Africa, the best in the world, and focusing on starting games better and applying pressure through a variety of tactical plays, including kicking, which fly-half Fin Smith executed effectively.
Potential Leadership and Backline Changes
Suggestions have been made to shift away from a purely positive outlook, with a proposal to permanently hand the captaincy to Ollie Chessum. The Leicester lock is seen as a no-nonsense player who could provide strong leadership. Fly-half Fin Smith is also emerging as a significant voice within the team.
Debutants Noah Caluori and Benhard Janse van Rensburg are set to feature, potentially adding an "X-factor" to the backline. Caluori, 19, expressed readiness for the challenge, stating, "You won’t really know until you’re in front of that challenge. I feel like mentally I’m ready for it." If these new players establish themselves, it could allow for a more settled backline, with Tommy Freeman potentially fixed at outside centre.
Ultimately, the team's attack needs to become sharper, and players must be empowered to showcase their skills. As George noted, the forwards need to provide better options and capitalize on opportunities to create dents in the midfield, enabling the outside backs to perform. The hope is for an England team that excites fans, moving beyond the current "imitation" and achieving strong, consistent results.