England fans urge RFU to appoint shock replacement for Steve Borthwick

Sunday, 22 February 2026 at 20:27

byRugby Rucker

England’s Guinness Six Nations campaign unravelled in brutal fashion as a 42–21 defeat to Ireland at the Allianz Stadium ended any lingering title ambitions and ramped up the scrutiny on Steve Borthwick and fly-half George Ford.

Watch the Guinness Six Nations at your local Greene King sports pub.

The heavy loss exposed familiar frailties in England’s attack and defence, prompting growing frustration among supporters and renewed calls for the Rugby Football Union (RFU) to consider a change in leadership ahead of the next international window.

Ireland’s ruthless efficiency punished England errors throughout, with the hosts running in six tries to underline the gulf between the two sides. While Ireland celebrated a statement victory, questions swirled around England’s tactical direction, squad selection, and long-term identity under Borthwick.

Pressure mounting on Borthwick

Borthwick, who took charge with a remit to rebuild following a turbulent period, now finds himself under intensifying pressure. Critics argue England’s progress has stalled, with inconsistency and a lack of attacking spark becoming recurring themes.

Much of the post-match debate has centred on Ford’s game management and England’s inability to control territory against elite opposition. Supporters have also pointed to a perceived reluctance to evolve tactically, especially compared to leading nations.

Fans call for change

In the aftermath of the defeat, fans voiced their opinions on who should replace Borthwick should the RFU decide to make a change. A recent poll revealed a clear favourite emerging among supporters — and a potentially eye-catching one.

? POLL: Who Should Replace Steve Borthwick?

⬜ Shaun Edwards – 38%
⬜ Scott Robertson – 21%
⬜ Phil Dowson – 19%
⬜ Stick with Borthwick – 11%
⬜ Warren Gatland – 6%
⬜ Sir Clive Woodward – 5%

Shaun Edwards topped the poll with a commanding 38 per cent of the vote, comfortably ahead of his nearest rival. The experienced defence coach is widely regarded as one of the sharpest tactical minds in the game, and his success at international level has made him an attractive option for supporters craving intensity and defensive steel.

His strong backing suggests fans are eager for a proven winner capable of instilling resilience and edge — qualities many feel have been lacking in recent performances.

What happens next?

For now, the RFU has shown no indication of making an immediate change. However, with expectations high and England’s rebuilding phase under scrutiny, performances in upcoming fixtures will be pivotal in shaping Borthwick’s future.

England’s Two Biggest Names Implode in Nightmare Ireland Defeat

Itoje and Ford were two of England’s six biggest underperformers on a chastening day at HQ.

Freddie Steward

The Leicester full-back endured an afternoon to forget. England rely on him to dominate the skies — he didn’t. Wobbly under the high ball, fortunate not to be punished for one costly spill that almost gifted Ireland a try, and then yellow-carded for a desperate infringement that handed the visitors momentum. Hooked before half-time in a ruthless call that spoke volumes.

Tom Curry

Back in the starting XV but unable to impose himself. Ireland controlled the breakdown, an area Curry usually relishes, and he struggled to swing momentum. There were flashes in wider channels and his work-rate never dipped, but England needed edge and authority — they didn’t get it. Substituted after 50 minutes with little lasting imprint on the contest.

Henry Arundell

A winger blessed with pace but short on impact. For the second week running, he looked uncertain under the high ball and hesitant when chances opened up. England needed incision out wide; instead they got indecision. A couple of promising carries came to nothing, and defensively he was exposed too often.

George Ford

A brutal afternoon for the 100-cap fly-half. Twice missing touch in the first half — one a glaring error — set the tone and drew ironic cheers from the Twickenham crowd. His game management, usually so reliable, faltered, and England’s attack drifted as a result. Slight improvement later on could not mask an uncharacteristically poor showing.

Luke Cowan-Dickie

Dragged off after just 29 minutes in a damning indictment. The lineout malfunctioned from the outset and confidence drained visibly. While he offered some energy in the loose, England never looked secure at set-piece with him throwing. A torrid cameo ended early as the coaches sou``ght stability.

Maro Itoje

A landmark 100th cap that turned into a nightmare. The lineout creaked, Ireland bullied the breakdown and England’s talismanic lock couldn’t wrest back control. Substituted after 55 minutes with the game slipping away — a rare afternoon where his influence barely registered. For a player of his stature, it was one of his poorest displays in an England shirt.