England boss Steve Borthwick's departure date isn't far off
Rugby NewsThursday, 05 March 2026 at 12:30
Steve Borthwick is facing growing pressure as England head coach after a run of inconsistent performances, but he is still expected to remain in charge until the end of his contract in 2027.
Find your local Greene King and settle in for the 2026 Six Nations!
Recent results have increased scrutiny on Borthwick, with critics questioning England’s attacking approach and overall direction. Expectations remain high following England’s run to the semi-finals of the 2023 Rugby World Cup, but performances since then have left many supporters frustrated.
Despite the mounting criticism, the Rugby Football Union appears committed to seeing out the current World Cup cycle with Borthwick in charge.
His contract runs until the 2027 Rugby World Cup in Australia and the RFU is believed to have little appetite for making a change before then.
The governing body’s approach follows a pattern of backing coaches for an entire World Cup cycle, as seen during the tenures of Eddie Jones and Sir Clive Woodward. Both men enjoyed significant success but their reigns ultimately ended on difficult terms after long periods in the role.
While speculation over Borthwick’s future continues to grow, it is widely believed his contract will not be renewed beyond 2027. That would make the most likely departure point shortly after the Rugby World Cup in Australia, bringing his England tenure to a close at the end of the current cycle.
“Firefighter” – Five Leading Contenders to Replace Steve Borthwick
So if the RFU were to twist, who could realistically step in?
Warren Gatland
Bio
A serial Six Nations winner with Wales and three-time British & Irish Lions head coach, Gatland is the ultimate international operator. His teams are built on defensive steel, ruthless conditioning and tournament nous. An “old hand” who knows exactly how to win in the northern hemisphere cauldron.
Why it makes sense
England need structure, clarity and bite. Gatland guarantees all three. He would command instant respect and strip things back to basics.
The risk
Pragmatic, attritional rugby won’t thrill Twickenham. And would England really turn to a coach so closely tied to Welsh success?
Verdict
Safe hands, short-term fix. If England want stability before the next World Cup cycle, Gatland is plug-and-play.
Scott Robertson
Bio
The architect of the Crusaders dynasty and recently moved on from the All Blacks role. Innovative, charismatic and attack-minded, Robertson built one of the most dominant provincial teams in history.
Why it makes sense
England’s attack has stagnated. Robertson would bring tempo, invention and belief. His man-management is widely praised, and his personality could reset the national mood overnight.
The risk
Little northern hemisphere experience. The English media glare is relentless.
Verdict
High ceiling, high drama. A statement appointment — and perhaps the bold reboot England crave.
Phil Dowson
Bio
Head coach of Northampton Saints and arguably the most progressive English coach in the Prem right now. Dowson has built a young, ambitious Saints side playing fearless, fast rugby.
Why it makes sense
He understands the English player pool intimately and promotes youth without fear. His brand of rugby aligns with where the modern Test game is heading.
The risk
No Test experience. The jump from club to international is vast — and unforgiving.
Verdict
The project pick. If the RFU want a long-term identity shift, Dowson is the developmental gamble.
Shaun Edwards
Bio
Currently defence guru with France, Edwards has built some of the most ferocious defensive systems in modern rugby. A league legend turned union mastermind, he has openly stated his desire to be a head coach.
Why it makes sense
England’s defensive edge has dulled. Edwards would restore aggression and clarity. His standards are famously uncompromising.
The risk
Limited head coach pedigree at Test level. Defence alone doesn’t solve creativity issues.
Verdict
Culture shock appointment. Could reignite England’s identity — but needs the right attacking lieutenant.
Poll
Sir Clive Woodward
Bio
The man who led England to Rugby World Cup glory in 2003. Since stepping away from coaching, Woodward has been an outspoken critic of successive regimes.
Why it makes sense
Proven winner. Understands English rugby’s machinery better than anyone. If standards have slipped, he knows what elite looks like.
The risk
Two decades removed from frontline coaching. The modern game has evolved dramatically.
Verdict
Romantic but risky. A nostalgia play that would dominate headlines — but success is far from guaranteed.
EDITORS PICKS
- England fans want Ireland game replayed after ‘criminal’ decision
- Will Greenwood tells Steve Borthwick to DROP England centurion
- England make shock ‘sack decision’ on Steve Borthwick
- Ellis Genge calls out teammates after defeat against Ireland
- Second Week Running: Mike Brown Left Red-Faced Over Prediction
You'll have to be red-hot to get 15/15 in this 2010s Six Nations quiz
Think you know the stars of the Six Nations from the 2010s? It’s time to put your knowledge to the test with this thrilling multiple-choice quiz!
The Six Nations Championship, Europe’s premier rugby tournament, has delivered unforgettable moments and showcased some of the game’s greatest players.
From stunning tries to epic battles, the 2010s were packed with rugby brilliance.
Can you name the players who lit up the tournament during this golden decade? You’ll need to be on top form to get 15/15—are you up for the challenge? Let’s kick off!
TRENDING
LATEST NEWS
LATEST COMMENTS
- Jordie Barrett over Damian de Allende is far from being correct. The hype around Dupont is also overreaching, he's probably 4th in the world and has been since the 2023 WC. He also avoids certain matchups which is strange. The rest of the list is pretty good apart from minor subjective biases.JasonMarlow16-09-2026
Loading