Under pressure England boss Steve Borthwick in Springboks’ spotlight
Sign up now: Get the biggest sports news in your inbox
Ben Spencer of England puts his hand on his head after losing to Australia in their international test.
PHOTO: EPA-EFE
LONDON – England coach Steve Borthwick leads his side into the Nov 16 match against world champions South Africa at Twickenham in desperate need of a win, as he bids to end a four-game losing streak.
The Rugby Football Union insists the former England captain retains its “100 per cent support” ahead of the side’s first match against South Africa since the Springboks’ dramatic 16-15 World Cup semi-final win in 2023.
That was the first of several narrow losses under Borthwick, whose men launched their November campaign with 24-22 and 42-37 Twickenham defeats by New Zealand and Australia respectively.
“When you lose two games, even if it’s by a point or last-minute try, the pressure does start to build,” said South Africa supremo Rassie Erasmus.
“I’ve been there and certainly know how quickly that can get to you. Now Steve is a bit under pressure... they can make you feel like you have got a gun against your head.”
Will Carling, a former England captain, and 2003 World Cup-winning coach Clive Woodward have both questioned Borthwick’s methods after his side lost to Australia despite leading 37-35 with 83 minutes played.
Nevertheless, Borthwick – who has a modest record of 13 wins in 26 Tests since succeeding mentor Eddie Jones as England boss – insisted: “When you are coaching England, there are always things on the outside. It is one of my strengths that I just focus and compartmentalise pretty well.
“My job is to coach this team. We are frustrated we haven’t got wins, we intend to get wins, and it’s a brilliant challenge for us this weekend.”
Borthwick has made four changes to his starting 15 against Australia, notably recalling full-back Freddie Steward – renowned for his ability under the high ball.
“The team that kicks more contestable kicks than anybody in the world is South Africa,” said Borthwick, adding: “That means that anyone who has strengths in that area is going to be very important in this game.”
England flanker Tom Curry’s head injury has ruled him out of this game.
Such is South Africa’s strength in depth they have made 12 changes to the 15 that started last weekend’s 32-15 win over Scotland. Only lock Eben Etzebeth, hooker Bongi Mbonambi and prop Ox Nche have retained their places.
Siya Kolisi returns to lead the team while the Springboks go in search of more glory after winning the 2024 Rugby Championship.
Erasmus, asked about the balance between squad development and victory, replied: “You have to win. It’ll be big, it’ll be huge if we can win this match after making so many changes, it’ll justify a lot of players.” AFP
