"Blew their chance" - Steve Borthwick releases 10 players from his World Cup squad

Sunday, 06 August 2023 at 20:02

byRugby Rucker

Steve Borthwick is taking an early approach in finalising his squad for the Rugby World Cup, announcing it three weeks before World Rugby's deadline.

He believes this is essential to establish clarity and cohesion within a team he only began working with at the beginning of the year.

After a meeting with his coaching staff at St David's Hotel in Cardiff on Saturday night, Borthwick informed the players on Sunday morning about their positions.

However, he emphasized that the disappointing performance against Wales was not the sole determinant of their fate.

"All the factors contribute to the overall picture of information," Borthwick stated.

"Saturday's match was just one part of that. The training period over the last few weeks, their previous performances for England, and the analysis of their play all play a role in the decision-making process. Ultimately,

"it comes down to those tough choices where I take a moment to reflect and make the final call."

As for the 2023 Rugby World Cup, the following 10 players have reportedly been released from the squad.

Back-three omitted: Jonny May, Joe Cokanasiga, Cadan Murley

Jonny May of England (Gloucester Rugby) during the an England Rugby Training session at the Brighton College, Sussex on the 19th June 2023 - PHOTO: Micah Crook/PPAUK

Centres omitted: Henry Slade, Guy Porter

The decision seems to be influenced by Steve Borthwick's preference for size and versatility in the team.

Their performances in England's disappointing 20-9 defeat to Wales on Saturday seem to have affected their chances of making it to the World Cup squad.

According to Telegraph Sport, Borthwick explained to the 30-year-old that he needed more wing cover, leading to Joe Marchant benefiting from the selection.

In the squad, Marchant will be joined by the powerful duo of Ollie Lawrence and Manu Tuilagi as the only specialist centres. However, Elliot Daly and captain Owen Farrell will also be able to provide additional cover if needed.

Try Celebrations for Henry Slade of England as he goes over for a try during the Autumn Nations International Series match between England and South Africa at Twickenham, London on 26 November 2022 (Photo: Tom Sandberg/PPAUK)

Henry Slade during the England Rugby Training Sessions at The Lensbury Hotel, Teddington, London on 3 July 2023 (Photo: George Beck/PPAUK)

Omitted props: Mako Vunipola (injury)

Head coach Steve Borthwick announced that Mako Vunipola, the experienced 80-cap Test front-row player, will not be part of the initial 33-man Rugby World Cup squad, which is set to be revealed on Monday.

“At this stage, Mako (Vunipola) is not going to be a fit enough state to be selected this Monday,” revealed Borthwick to Planet Rugby.

“I know the 33 will be announced on Monday but we also know that through the tournament changes will happen and that’s something we will always be monitoring.

“There was certainly a precedent set in prior World Cup preparations that where there’s injury, where there’s players with bumps and bruises, is that players from outside the 33 can can be part of it.

Mako Vunipola of Saracens during the Gallagher Premiership Rugby Final Match between Saracens and Sale Sharks at Twickenham Stadium on 27 May 2023. Photo: Tom Sandberg/PPAUK

“Mako sent us a message this morning, wishing us all the best for the game today. There’s a number of changes that happen to the squad during a World Cup and we’re all well aware those happen.

“The average is one and a half changes per team so we know that’s going to be a factor. What we must do is focus very much on the players we have selected and I’m excited to announce those on Monday.”

Omitted hookers: Jamie Blamire

Jamie Blamire of England during the Summer Nations Series Rugby match between Wales and England at Principality Stadium on August 5, 2023 in Cardiff, Wales. Photo: Phil Mingo/PPAUK

Omitted locks: Jonny Hill

England players, Jonny Hill of England and Jamie George of England check out the pitch ahead of the Summer Nations Series Rugby match between Wales and England at Principality Stadium on August 5, 2023 in Cardiff, Wales. Photo: Phil Mingo/PPAUK

Omitted back-rows: Alex Dombrandt, Tom Pearson