New Zealand coach Andrew Strawbridge has stepped away from his England role overseeing the contact area following the autumn internationals.
Strawbridge is arguably the least well-known figure in Steve Borthwick’s coaching ticket — a Waikato man through and through who moved into coaching after his playing days and built a heavyweight CV. The 61-year-old had been working as a consultant during the Six Nations before joining England full-time ahead of the 2024 tour of Japan and New Zealand.
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A respected operator who has coached the Chiefs, Samoa and even spent time with the All Blacks, Strawbridge’s forensic approach fitted neatly with Borthwick’s trademark attention to detail.
But New Zealand coach Andrew Strawbridge has stepped away from his England role overseeing the contact area following the autumn internationals.
Strawbridge is arguably the least well-known figure in Steve Borthwick’s coaching ticket — a Waikato man through and through who moved into coaching after his playing days and built a heavyweight CV. The 61-year-old had been working as a consultant during the Six Nations before joining England full-time ahead of the 2024 tour of Japan and New Zealand.
A respected operator who has coached the Chiefs, Samoa and even spent time with the All Blacks, Strawbridge’s forensic approach fitted neatly with Borthwick’s trademark attention to detail.
But his short stint is now over, with the Kiwi heading back home after the completion of the contract he signed last year.
“Andrew has made a significant contribution to this team,” said Borthwick. “He’s brought a wealth of knowledge and experience, and we are very grateful for everything he’s done over the past two years.”
Strawbridge was equally complimentary of the England boss: “I enjoy working with Steve. We’re very different men in just about every way, but I enjoy his forthrightness, his intellect and his openness. He’s a meticulous planner and a hard worker. I can come at things from left field at times, and he’s open to considering those ideas. It creates a healthy environment.”
“Andrew has made a significant contribution to this team,” said Borthwick. “He’s brought a wealth of knowledge and experience, and we are very grateful for everything he’s done over the past two years.”
Strawbridge was equally complimentary of the England boss: “I enjoy working with Steve. We’re very different men in just about every way, but I enjoy his forthrightness, his intellect and his openness. He’s a meticulous planner and a hard worker. I can come at things from left field at times, and he’s open to considering those ideas. It creates a healthy environment.”
Every England Player This Autumn Ranked From Best to Worst
England’s perfect surge through the Quilter Nations Series — with statement wins over Australia, Fiji, New Zealand and Argentina — has extended their unbeaten run to 11 Tests and ignited fresh optimism ahead of the coming season.
With form peaking across the squad, here is every England player ranked, assessing who truly shaped this impressive autumn campaign.
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George Ford (1)
Led England superbly and strengthened his claim as the country’s best fly-half. Delivered polished, composed performances and repeatedly rose to the occasion as the key playmaker driving England’s attack.
Ben Earl (2)
Fully deserved his Player of the Match awards, bringing relentless work rate in defence and attack. Offered power, pace and consistency throughout. Now looks the long-term No.8.
Immanuel Feyi-Waboso (3)
Electric whenever he touched the ball. Arguably the most exciting player of the autumn and made a massive impact after returning from injury. A huge talent and a major reason for fan optimism.
Maro Itoje (4)
Led with authority and delivered his usual defensive excellence. Tireless, disciplined, and a stabilising presence whose leadership continues to influence the squad.
Sam Underhill (5)
Starting him over Tom Curry was a big call — and fully justified. An absolute workhorse with a huge engine. Tackled everything and provided the unseen graft behind England’s results.
Alex Coles (6)
Still underrated, but increasingly vital. Brought physicality, consistency and dependable set-piece work. Quietly stepped up a gear and proved he belongs at the top level.
Luke Cowan-Dickie (7)
Made the most of every opportunity. Threw accurately, carried well and added a surprising bit of flair when needed. Smart, reliable and impactful.
Guy Pepper (8)
Worked ferociously across the park. Brilliant at the breakdown and another example of England’s growing depth. Will push hard for a Six Nations starting place.
Fraser Dingwall (9)
Unlucky to miss the Argentina Test through injury, but otherwise excellent. A perfect linkman at 12 who keeps the attack flowing smoothly.
Tom Curry (10)
Reduced to an impact role but executed it perfectly. Brought physicality, disruption and momentum-changing energy off the bench.
Freddie Steward (11)
Answered his critics. Remained immense in the air while showing real improvements in his all-round game. Proved he is the right fullback.
