"Addressed uncertainty" - Steve Borthwick releases statement on England captaincy - Ruck

“Addressed uncertainty” – Steve Borthwick releases statement on England captaincy

Owen Farrell is set to continue his role as captain throughout England’s World Cup campaign, receiving unwavering support from head coach Steve Borthwick, despite his recent suspension.

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In the upcoming Pool D match against Chile, Farrell will take the helm, replacing George Ford. Borthwick has made significant changes to the lineup, keeping just three players from the squad that secured a 34-12 victory against Japan.

“I picked Owen as captain back in June, and have been very clear on that,” Borthwick said. “This is a great position we’re in that we’ve got such incredible leaders,” said Woodward.

“Owen has been an incredible leader for this team, even though he hasn’t been able to be part of a match-day 23. He’s been an incredibly influential off-field leader.

“The way he has helped this team through the first rounds of this World Cup has been fantastic and we’re looking forward to seeing him back on the field on Saturday.

“What I think Owen does is firstly the example he sets, which is second to none and he is somebody you can follow by their example.

“Secondly, his ability to harness all of those people (in the senior player group) and bring them all to be influential leaders within the squad is a real skill. I think it is an incredible skill. I think he’s done that brilliantly.

“He’s a mentor, and he’s a great voice in terms of myself as well, to us and the coaching team in what he gives to the programme.”

Three England players who didn’t make Steve Borthwick’s standby list

We take a look at three outstanding England players who didn’t even make Steve Borthwick’s standby list for the 2023 Rugby World Cup.

#1. Cadan Murley

He emerged as the top try scorer in the Premiership during the previous season, consistently adding a touch of excitement every time he graced the rugby field. His unique blend of physicality in tackling and world-class finishing skills set him apart.

Astoundingly, he continues to chase after his first England cap, despite being part of training squads on numerous occasions.

In an unexpected turn of events, he was initially excluded by Borthwick in June, only to be reinstated into the squad, and then dropped once more.

This entire situation seems rather unpleasant and undeserving for someone who has consistently delivered on the field. In a recent interview, he expressed feeling like he doesn’t quite fit in, as he’s not included in any standby lists.

TRY! Cadan Murley of Harlequins scores a try during the Gallagher Premiership match between Harlequins and Worcester Warriors the Twickenham Stoop, Twickenham, London on Saturday 25th September 2021 | Photo: James Fearn/PPAUK.

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