Borthwick should trust Marcus Smith to unshackle England’s faltering attack | Gerard Meagher
The Harlequins fly-half will win his 50th cap against France but it still appears the head coach lacks faith in him
When Steve Borthwick is summoned to Twickenham to explain what will be England’s worst Six Nations campaign should they lose to France on Saturday, to effectively fight for his job, he would be well advised to give the Rugby Football Union’s strategic plan another read.
Released in January, the RFU made clear Borthwick’s aim “is not only to consistently win senior international competitions, but to do so in a way that inspires future generations”. He has failed on both counts but it is the second charge – that England have been thoroughly uninspiring – he must sufficiently answer if he is remain in place for next year’s World Cup.