England finished fourth in the Six Nations table after their 29-16 defeat to Grand Slam winners Ireland in Dublin; Steve Borthwick’s side now have less than six months to prepare for the World Cup in France; “I’m excited about what these players can do for the World Cup”
Last Updated: 19/03/23 11:23am
Henry Slade is tackled by Ireland’s Bundee Aki during England’s 29-16 Six Nations defeat in Dublin
England coach Steve Borthwick is “excited” about his side’s World Cup prospects despite their underwhelming Six Nations campaign.
Borthwick’s team, who signed off with a 29-16 loss to Grand Slam winners Ireland, finished fourth in the table after registering two wins and three defeats for the third year running.
Although England’s performance in Dublin was a vast improvement on their 53-10 mauling by France a week earlier, there was little to indicate they could be major contenders for this autumn’s global tournament.
“We’ll debrief this Six Nations thoroughly, take what lessons we take from it and be clear on our direction going forward,” said Borthwick.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player
Ireland head coach Andy Farrell was delighted to clinch the Grand Slam on home turf while England’s Steve Borthwick admitted his side fell short
Ireland head coach Andy Farrell was delighted to clinch the Grand Slam on home turf while England’s Steve Borthwick admitted his side fell short
“The team is not where it could be and, while we’re judging against teams that have used this four-year cycle tremendously well, that’s not the position England are in.
“I can’t do anything about the past. I intend we will be working really hard to put England in the best position possible and I’m excited about what these players can do for the World Cup.”
The former Leicester head coach, who replaced Eddie Jones in December, is relishing the prospect of having more ti …