Steve Borthwick has admitted England must rapidly bridge the gap between the Premiership and Test rugby if they are to succeed in the upcoming Nations Championship. With Australia visiting Allianz Stadium, Twickenham on Sunday, Borthwick stressed the need to raise standards at the breakdown and in defence. He noted that while the Premiership focuses on attack, it does not adequately prepare players for the physical and defensive challenges of international rugby.
The recent Champions Cup round highlighted this, with English clubs managing just one win from eight matches, losing more ball and winning back less at the breakdown than any other nation. Referee Christophe Ridley assisted in training, helping the squad adapt to international interpretations. Borthwick emphasised that defence must make it very difficult for opponents to score, and that players must adjust to different refereeing styles.
He pointed out that England has received 15 yellow cards in eight Tests this year, including four against Argentina, and believes going on the attack is the solution to indiscipline. "Frankly, we spend too much time defending," he said, noting that cards are increasingly given when defending in the own 22.
Source: Sky Sports Champions League · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing