Former England fullback Mike Brown believes Steve Borthwick’s men need to kick on following the 2024 Six Nations with one eye the next Rugby World Cup.
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France emerged triumphant in a heart-stopping showdown against England in Lyon, sealing a third-place finish in the 2024 Six Nations standings for the men in white.
Summing up England’s Six Nations performance, he wrote: “They should be competing for the Six Nations title and Grand Slams so while winning three games to finish third is a step in the right direction, there is still significant work to do.
“England must build on this Six Nations when they go to New Zealand in the summer.”
“That will be an acid test, as facing the All Blacks in their own back yard is one of the toughest challenges you can face. England have only ever won twice on New Zealand soil.”
Suggesting it’s time a number of players are moved on, Brown added: “They have the basis of a strong team. But they also need to work out who will take the team forward long term.
“For example, Danny Care might not make the next World Cup so who is back-up No 9 to Alex Mitchell? It’s the same with Dan Cole.
“There are still questions to answer, but I’m more upbeat about England at the end of the Six Nations than I was at the beginning.”
“Bullied” – Four players who underperformed for England against France
Below we look at four players who failed to perform in Lyon with their futures now in doubt.
#1. Elliot Daly
Rugby Pass 5.5/10: “Back in the starting team after Immanuel Feyi-Waboso ruled himself with a self-diagnosed concussion, the fear was he wouldn’t bring the oomph that the rookie managed and sadly this was the case.”
RUCK 6/10: “Back in to the starting line-up as Manny Feyi-Waboso is out with a concussion. Claimed the high balls confidently, but swamped when trying to stretch his legs. Returned the favour with good kick chase and well timed tackles on the receivers. Vocal on the touchlines, as the assistant referee handed a line-out to France.”