POLL: Who should be next England head coach?

— but feels like a backward-looking rather than progressive choice.

According to RugbyPass, an 11-man shortlist of potential successors is already doing the rounds.

From proven international winners to rising Premiership coaches and high-profile overseas names, the list underlines both the scale of England’s expectations and the urgency of their current predicament.

A hugely successful coach with the Crusaders and strong attacking identity.
Verdict: Serious contender — but only if he’s actually available. Contract complications and recent All Blacks tensions make this uncertain.

Built a formidable side at La Rochelle and has clear Test ambitions.
Verdict: Very strong contender — ticks most boxes, but Ireland may be his preferred next step.

Elite-level operator with deep England ties and current Ireland success.
Verdict: Ideal but unlikely — timing (World Cup cycle) makes a move improbable.

Proven Premiership winner and deeply respected builder of teams.
Verdict: Outside-but-plausible — RFU like him, but he’s not the flashy pick.

Highly rated domestically and seen as a future England coach.
Verdict: Dark horse — might come too soon, but he’s clearly on the pathway.

One of the best defence coaches in the world with a winning pedigree.
Verdict: Romantic but tricky — prising him away from France is the main obstacle.

Has transformed Bath and built a winning culture.
Verdict: Unlikely — may prefer to wait for a future Springboks opportunity.

Experienced international coach with Japan and Super Rugby pedigree.
Verdict: Long shot — credible, but not a front-line RFU target.

Former World Cup finalist with a strong personality.
Verdict: Wildcard — has pedigree, but current commitments and timing count against him.

Already inside the RFU setup and highly experienced.
Verdict: Left-field but practical — low disruption option, though not a statement appointment.

World Cup-winning coach with vast experience.
Verdict: Experience pick