Henry Pollock Backed to be England Captain

Tuesday, 07 July 2026 at 17:17

byHarry Tovey

England head coach Steve Borthwick is under immense pressure after a disappointing five-game losing streak, which was extended by a 45-21 defeat to South Africa in Johannesburg last Saturday.

His future as head coach remains uncertain, but if his side loses to Fiji at the Hill Dickinson Stadium this Saturday (KO: 14:10), then that might be the end for Borthwick.

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Former England international Stuart Barnes has argued that the 46-year-old coach should select Henry Pollock for the remainder of this summer’s Nations Championship matches.

He argues that the Northampton Saints player would provide a spark to this struggling side, as England are struggling on the international stage.

After their defeat against the Springboks at Ellis Park, Barnes stated that England lacked inspiration and wants Borthwick to have a bold approach ahead of this weekend’s ‘away’ clash against Fiji in Liverpool.

“After Saturday’s brave but uninspiring effort, why not make Henry Pollock captain for the summer?” Barnes said in his Times column.

“England needs a leader who has the confidence to shake up the system. Bringing him on to the field at the hour mark was a waste.

“Making him captain could be a disaster. But who knows, it could provide the inspiration that has ebbed away from this squad.

“Amid all the controversy, it has been forgotten what an inspiring leader he was of England in all age groups. Despite what many may think, he is a leader.

“Pollock is divisive; he’s a dream/nightmare depending on so many factors, but if not now, when is the time to gamble?

“At the very least, Pollock must start.”