Head coach Steve Borthwick is encouraging his young England players not to shy away from the spotlight as they prepare to make history this summer. With a mix of experienced forwards and inexperienced backs due to retirements and injuries, Borthwick is urging the new faces to step up and showcase their talents on the field.
In a recent interview on the Rugby Union Weekly podcast, Borthwick emphasized the importance of players not being afraid to make mistakes and instead focus on bringing their unique skills to the game. With key players like Danny Care and Manu Tuilagi no longer available, and others like George Ford and Elliot Daly injured, there is an opportunity for young talents like Ollie Sleightholme, Tom Roebuck, and Joe Carpenter to make their mark.
Despite the lack of caps in some areas of the team, Borthwick is confident in the abilities of his players who have been battle-tested in the tough Premiership competition. The experience gained from playing in high-pressure situations in the Premiership final can be directly transferred to the international stage.
The coach is also excited about the generational shift at fly-half, with Marcus and Fin Smith vying for the starting position in the absence of Farrell and Ford. Both players have shown exceptional talent and determination, and Borthwick is looking forward to working with them to develop their skills further.
One of the key returns to the squad is flanker Tom Curry, who impressed in his comeback from injury in Sale’s recent semi-final match. Despite concerns about his fitness, Borthwick is confident in Curry’s readiness based on medical reports and personal conversations with the player. His inclusion in the squad was a straightforward decision given his eagerness to contribute to the team.
As England prepares to face Japan and New Zealand in upcoming tests, Borthwick acknowledges the challenges ahead but remains optimistic about the team’s potential to create lasting memories. With a focus on aggressive and dynamic gameplay, the coach hopes that his young team will rise to the occasion and leave a mark on the field.
The upcoming matches against formidable opponents in iconic venues present a unique opportunity for the team to showcase their skills and build camaraderie. Borthwick’s ultimate goal is for his players to look back on their time in the England shirt with pride and cherish the memories created during their journey through Japan and New Zealand.