Steve Borthwick explains how England predecessors helped him block out the noise

Steve Borthwick revealed that supportive messages from former England head coaches helped him ignore external criticism ahead of England's record 45-22 victory over Australia. The decisive win followed media scrutiny concerning his management style during the July tour. RFU chief executive Bill Sweeney previously confirmed full backing for Borthwick ahead of the upcoming World Cup.

Flanker Henry Pollock made an impressive impact by scoring two tries after shifting to the wing to replace the injured Immanuel Feyi-Waboso. While Borthwick praised Pollock's versatility, England suffered injury concerns with Feyi-Waboso hurting his ankle and centre Seb Atkinson sustaining a hip injury.