The review will cover technical, cultural and coaching issues. An anonymous panel will look at selection, discipline, a narrow kicking strategy, and a lack of attacking flexibility. This will be an under-the-bonnet review.
In my opinion, it is quite simple. Borthwick has a problem with selection and team play. He is data-driven and does not see the game through his players’ eyes. The insider trading picture is that he will keep his job. But if England loses their next three fixtures against South Africa, Fiji, and Argentina in the summer, it may be too late to find a replacement. I think they should replace him now.
Eye-watering
Meanwhile, Leicester won the Prem Rugby Cup for non-international players, defeating Exeter 66-14 at home. This was despite eyebrows being widely raised when the Leicester team was announced!
Elsewhere, the major talking point was Sir James Dyson’s purchase of a 50% share in Bath Rugby Club. That will go some way to alleviating their current eye-watering debt of £17 million (B744mn).
Franchises are the future for Gallagher Premiership Clubs – possibly followed by the formation of two European leagues with a massive TV agreement? Each season, the cumulative debt grows, and I fear more American sporting icons with cash to spare may seek a new hobby.
In the major European leagues, the top two teams are as follows:
URC: Glasgow and the Stormers.
Top 14” Toulouse et Montpellier.
Gallagher Premiership: Northampton and Bath.
Sometimes your sport points you in a certain direction. In the under-18s, France beat England by 68 points. In the U-20 Six Nations, France won. A pattern seems to be emerging!
Coaching is a profession and nurturing and developing your own talent is a skill. Plus, it is easier on the financial pocket. Character is more important than cash.
Enjoy your local rugby until the Nations Cup starts in July with England in Johannesburg.
The Global Rugby Coach, Mike Penistone, is a globally renowned professional rugby coach based in Phuket who is also an ambassador for the Asia Center Foundation, a charity for disadvantaged children. For more information visit: www.rugbycoachingconsultancy.com.