“Firefighter” – Five Leading Contenders to Replace Steve Borthwick

Sunday, 22 February 2026 at 11:37

bySteven Smith

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

Former England fly-half and RugbyPass columnist Andy Goode said the performance matched Borthwick’s demeanour:

“Andy Farrell got his troops firing today, the mark of the head coach. Ireland were class from the first minute. England mirrored Steve Borthwick, uninspiring and dull. Ford’s time is up too in an England shirt.”

Fans also questioned Borthwick’s in-game calls — notably deploying Marcus Smith at full-back rather than replacing Ford at 10. Former USA Eagles star Will Hooley posted:

“If Borthwick truly wanted to make a statement, Smith can’t be brought on at 15…why not just give him the keys at 10 for a half?”

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.