With exactly one year remaining until the start of the 2027 Rugby World Cup, England’s rugby union team faces significant challenges as it prepares for the tournament in Australia. Head coach Steve Borthwick, who has led the team for nearly four years, recently exhibited uncharacteristic frustration in response to questions about England’s recent performances, underlining the intense scrutiny surrounding the squad’s prospects.
England’s recent form has been troubling. The team endured its worst-ever Six Nations campaign, which included a historic loss to Italy, and suffered a heavy defeat to South Africa in July. These results highlight the gap between England and the current top tier of international rugby, represented by South Africa, New Zealand, and France. England currently ranks fifth in the world, trailing these leading sides, but the World Cup draw offers a degree of optimism. Placed in Group F alongside Wales, Tonga, and Zimbabwe, England appears positioned to avoid top-ranked opponents until the knockout rounds, where a likely last-16 meeting with Italy awaits.
Borthwick faces a demanding task in positioning England to capitalize on this favorable path. One critical issue is squad depth. England lacks a broad base of world-class talent beyond its first-choice players, making player fitness a priority. Key prospects such as Immanuel Feyi-Waboso and Fin Smith are central to England’s ambitions, and Borthwick may need to take a firm stance with clubs to manage game time and reduce the risk of injury. The crowded domestic and international calendars have frequently seen England players exceed 30 matches per season, increasing fatigue and injury concerns.
Another significant challenge lies in stabilizing the backline, particularly the midfield. Despite being three years into the World Cup cycle, England has struggled to identify a consistent number 13—an issue compounded by Ollie Lawrence’s recent absence and Henry Slade’s inconsistent selection. Alternatives such as Joe Marchant, who is eligible again after returning from France, may offer solutions if they regain form. The overall backline composition remains in flux, with varying selections across recent Six Nations matches.
Recruitment of coaching expertise is also under discussion. The recent termination of Shaun Edwards’s contract by France has sparked debate about his availability and value. Widely respected for his winning mindset and experience, Edwards currently serves as a consultant for England’s women’s team. Suggestions have emerged that Borthwick might benefit from exploring a short-term consultancy arrangement with Edwards ahead of the World Cup.
Leadership roles within the squad may also see adjustment. Long-serving captain Maro Itoje is experiencing increased competition for starting positions from players like George Martin, Alex Coles, and Ollie Chessum. With hooker Jamie George approaching retirement and facing his own competition, new leadership candidates such as Chessum or Fin Smith may be considered to guide the team forward.
Furthermore, questions linger regarding the inclusion of overseas-based talents. Jack Willis, recently named Top 14 player of the season for the second year running while captaining Toulouse, exemplifies this debate. Despite his status as a standout flanker who would likely start for England, Borthwick has thus far adhered to the Rugby Football Union’s policy of not selecting players based abroad, complicating England’s options.
Finally, the team’s tactical identity remains elusive. The coach has frequently rotated backline selections, with different lineups tried against Ireland and France during the Six Nations. While individual game plans serve specific opponents, analysts suggest that England would benefit by committing to a coherent playing style. Borthwick’s attacking approach in the final Six Nations fixture against France—despite ending in a close 48-46 loss—has been cited as a potential blueprint for future success.
As England prepares to host the Rugby World Cup next autumn in a challenging group, the team’s capacity to address these issues will be crucial in determining whether it can mount a serious challenge for the title.