James Haskell has backed Steve Borthwick as "the right man for the job" as England prepare for the conclusion of the inaugural Nations Championship in November. Borthwick oversaw England's worst-ever Six Nations campaign earlier this year, with four losses from their five matches, but despite growing pressure the RFU have publicly expressed their support for Borthwick through to the 2027 Rugby World Cup in Australia. This month, England will face Australia, Japan and New Zealand ahead of Finals Weekend, which takes place November 27-28 at Twickenham.
Former England international Haskell, who earned 77 Test caps between 2007 and 2019, insists it is not the time to change the head coach. Haskell also praised the ego and style of rising star Henry Pollock. The Northampton Saints back-row who made headlines by becoming the first rugby union player to sign for Eddie Hearn's Matchroom Talent Agency back in March, could be given more international chances in the coming weeks.
"He's definitely got that X-factor, in terms of the way he plays," said Haskell. Haskell noted Pollock is probably the most talked about rugby player at the moment and delivers when given opportunities on the field. He believes Pollock's rise will challenge stuffier elements of the upper echelons and the fanbase, and that building superstars like Pollock will put England in a great place.
"I think he's the right man for the job."
Source: Sky Sports Champions League · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing