Borthwick Survival Expected as RFU Review Targets Systematic Issues Over Personnel Changes

Steve Borthwick appears virtually certain to retain his position as England head coach despite overseeing the nation worst Six Nations performance in half a century, with Rugby Football Union insiders indicating the comprehensive review will focus on systematic improvements rather than personnel changes.

The RFU investigation into England disastrous fifth-place championship finish has commenced with remarkable speed, but well-placed sources suggest the process aims to support Borthwick rather than remove him. This review is about supporting Steve to make improvements, explained one insider. If change is needed, change is needed but it is not about punishing him. He is absolutely going to be in post this summer, there is no question about that.

England humiliating defeats to Scotland, Ireland, and Italy have prompted soul-searching throughout the rugby establishment, with the RFU conducting what sources describe as a proper under the bonnet, lifting-up-the-rocks exploration of the catastrophic three-week period that defined their tournament.

The investigation will examine multiple factors including cultural environment, selection policies, and tactical approaches that contributed to England downfall. What happened in those three weeks? Is it cultural, is it environmental, is it selection, is it tactics? questioned one source familiar with the process.

Player feedback has emerged as a crucial component of the review, with both senior internationals and younger squad members being consulted about their experiences during the championship. Reports suggest players demanded greater input following the Italy defeat, with the subsequent improvement in Paris offering evidence of what England can achieve when properly motivated.

Exeter director of rugby Rob Baxter emphasized that England problems extend beyond simple explanations or individual blame. The reality is that it is never one thing that is the problem, Baxter observed. It is never that one player was missing, say, or the tournament buildup was wrong. Finishing fifth is down to a collection of things that have slowly added up and then multiplied.

The composition of Borthwick coaching staff faces particular scrutiny, with questions raised about whether too many voices are creating confusion rather than clarity. They have got quite a wide coaching team, a lot of cooks - not spoil the broth but there is a lot of opinions to take in, noted Sale director of rugby Alex Sanderson. That may be a factor.

Tactical inconsistency has emerged as another major concern, with England oscillating between ambitious attacking rugby and pragmatic territory-based strategies without establishing a coherent identity. Post Ireland, it looked like they closed up against Italy, Sanderson analyzed. They looked like they went back to a very pragmatic kick-compete style which makes you competitive but also keeps the opposition close.

The disconnect between England stated ambitions and actual performance has frustrated observers who witnessed glimpses of potential during the Paris finale against France. When the shackles came off the week after they seemed so much more competitive, Sanderson concluded, highlighting the team capability when properly unleashed.

Some rugby figures advocate for bringing in experienced coaching reinforcement rather than wholesale changes. I would help Steve with a senior figure who can assist him with some of the stuff he is not very good at, suggested one former international. He needs a team manager who can deal with the media and player-management issues. He needs some help with selection, too.

The timing of the review creates additional pressure with England next fixture scheduled for July in Johannesburg against world champions South Africa. The summer is really important in terms of how the team shows up, acknowledged a senior RFU official. The World Cup is only 18 months away.

Selection dilemmas persist across multiple positions, particularly at fly-half and in the midfield where recent performances have complicated previously clear hierarchies. Some advocates continue supporting George Ford despite his struggles, while others champion younger players who showed promise during the championship.

England youth development pipeline faces questions following disappointing results at various age-grade levels, including the under-18 team recent 63-33 defeat to France and the under-20 squad sixth-place finish at last summer junior world championships.

However, optimism exists regarding emerging talent with successful graduates like Henry Pollock and Asher Opoku-Fordjour demonstrating the pathway effectiveness when properly managed. The talent pool is good, insisted Baxter, citing continued academy investment and rapid player progression through professional ranks.

The review outcome will be formally announced in mid-April, providing sufficient time for comprehensive analysis while allowing preparation for the challenging summer tour that could define England trajectory toward the next World Cup.