Injury crises and Borthwick under scrutiny: it’s that time of year again for England rugby

The Guardian's Robert Kitson reports that England head coach Steve Borthwick faces mounting scrutiny ahead of their Nations Championship opener against Australia at Allianz Stadium. A report revealed that players held a clear-the-air meeting in Argentina in July over Borthwick's man-management and perceived lack of empathy, adding severe pressure despite Rugby Football Union chief executive Bill Sweeney backing the coach through to the World Cup.

England also face a severe injury crisis, with Tom Curry, Alex Mitchell, Archie McParland, Sam Underhill, and Chandler Cunningham-South among those unavailable. Kitson argues England must urgently address their poor discipline, having collected 14 yellow cards and one red in 2026, while securing just two victories in their past seven Test matches.