England still have no identity and that could cost Borthwick

England still have no identity and that could cost Borthwick examines uncertainty around England rugby’s style and the implications for coach Steve Borthwick. The article recalls how Eddie Jones, appointed in 2016, built a “back-to-basics” plan centered on dominant set-pieces, aggression, and work rate, after England’s 2015 World Cup disappointment. It says Jones was dismissed after England lost 27-13 to South Africa at Twickenham in November 2022, when RFU chief executive Bill Sweeney concluded the approach was no longer working. Borthwick’s early plan relied on set-piece, kicking, and defense, and England reached the Rugby World Cup final in Paris only to lose on a late Handre Pollard penalty. The RFU will review the current cycle again after the Nations Championship match against Argentina in Santiago del Estero.