Former England boss Sir Clive Woodward has criticised Steve Borthwick and his team, accusing them of having a “stupid mindset” and of “living in dreamland.”
Duhan van der Merwe became the first Scotland player to score a Calcutta Cup hat-trick as the hosts racked up a fourth successive Six Nations victory over England.
Woodward now believes England must sit up and take notice after defeat to Scotland.
He wrote in his column for the Mail Online: England’s defeat in Edinburgh means they have now lost to Scotland four times in a row – the first time that has happened since 1896.
“To me this is a major statistic and one which has to make English rugby sit up and take notice at the fall from grace of the national side,
“England should not be losing to anybody four years in a row. That’s not to take anything away from Scotland,”
“It is now abundantly clear from recent results between the two sides that England are a long way behind Scotland,”
Following his damning opening, Woodward then discusses the four tough questions Borthwick needs to ask himself after the mauling at Murrayfield.
You can read his full column for the Mail Online here.
“Generational talent” – Five players Steve Borthwick should call-up after England A thrash Portugal
In a thrilling showdown between England A and Portugal, witnessed by a roaring crowd of 15,123 fans, the home team asserted their dominance right from the kick-off.
#1. Alfie Barbeary
Despite being sidelined from the initial Six Nations squad due to suspension, this impactful performance against Portugal is likely to earn the attention of selectors, potentially leading to a call-up to the senior England squad for the talented Bath No 8.
His recent outstanding form for the club reaffirms his push for international recognition, a goal he has frequently appeared destined for. Following a conversation with Borthwick at a health food cafe, there’s a strong indication that the young player has secured a spot in the head coach’s long-term plans.
From his days as a schoolboy centre, this 23-year-old has been hailed as one of English rugby’s most promising talents. He initially caught the eye in Wasps’ academy as a dynamic hooker but has since flourished into a formidable No 8 at Bath, showcasing his versatility and strength in the back row.