0/10: Three England Stars Borthwick Must Drop After France Defeat – And Who Should Replace Them

It was a game of missed chances, poor discipline, and fading fitness. With Argentina up next, Steve Borthwick must act decisively. Here are three players who should be dropped, and the men ready to take their chance.

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A comeback this bad might haunt him for the rest of the year.

RugbyPass gave him a 3/10, pointing to his early near-miss try and rustiness in handling. Planet Rugby were even harsher, dishing out a brutal 0/10, calling it a “nightmare” return after 182 days out. RUCK rated him 2/10, highlighting his poor discipline and costly red card for a swinging arm on Antoine Hastoy.

? REPLACEMENT: Adam Radwan (Leicester Tigers)
The electric flyer has hit the ground running since his move to Leicester from Newcastle. He’s rediscovered top form in the Premiership, combining blistering pace with smarter positioning and much-improved defence. Still just 27, Radwan offers lethal finishing and energy that England sorely lacked against France.ond’s leadership. Radwan offers blistering pace, real threat on the counter, and none of the rust.

A quiet day for the Sale winger, but quiet doesn’t cut it at this level.

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In brutal heat, Roebuck chased kicks all afternoon with little reward. His only real contribution was a decent line break to help set up Dombrandt’s try. Other than that, he looked lost in attack and ineffective in defence.

The Leicester Tigers powerhouse has rediscovered his best form since switching from Irish. At 6ft 4in and over 100kg, he brings physicality and a strong aerial game, plus he knows his way to the try-line. A more rounded option who’s earned another crack in white.

The Bath flanker worked hard but failed to truly impose himself.

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Hill’s physicality is never in question, but this was a match where England needed more than just effort—they needed leaders. While others found a second gear, Hill was steady, but unspectacular. Not a disaster, but not international standard either, especially with serious back-row talent knocking.

The London Irish academy product, now making waves at Harlequins, is the definition of an impact forward. Explosive, aggressive, and fearless in contact, CCS has the potential to become a mainstay in England’s back row for years. He’s ready for a shot—now’s the time.

The England team were dubbed ‘Dad’s Army’ by the rest of the world (mainly Australians) but everyone secretly knew England coach Clive Woodward had the best side around.

This quiz tests your knowledge of that heralded group of 22 players who took on and beat the Wallabies in their own backyard on November 22, 2003.

Some of these are significantly easier than others.