George: England players hurt by ‘shocking’ report of rift with Borthwick

England hooker Jamie George revealed the squad felt hurt and disappointed by reports alleging a player rift with head coach Steve Borthwick. A report from The Times claimed several players lost faith in Borthwick during their summer tour, alleging mistreatment and a training ground bust-up with Ellis Genge. George dismissed the claims, criticizing the timing of the story two days before England's Nations Championship match against Australia.

George explained that the team addressed the reports openly in a squad meeting led by captain Maro Itoje and fly-half George Ford. He insisted the players are fully behind Borthwick and intend to use the situation as motivation for Sunday's clash. George also praised starting loosehead prop Fin Baxter, calling the 24-year-old one of the best props he has played with.