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Steve Borthwick has finally put his England players on notice – now it’s time they delivered if they want to be anywhere near the plane to the World Cup, writes ALEX BYWATER

Too often these days, international rugby coaches are reticent to admit their teams must win or that players must deliver to avoid being dropped. Borthwick has put his players on trial.

By ALEX BYWATER · Daily Mail

Published: Wednesday, 28 October 2026 at 2:00 AM

Key Things to Know

Alex Bywater highlights Steve Borthwick's warning that England players must perform this autumn to secure World Cup selection.
England has 12 Tests remaining before the 2027 World Cup in Australia.
Fly-half Fin Smith is battling a calf injury to be fit for England's opener against Australia.

The Story in 60 Seconds

Alex Bywater reports that England head coach Steve Borthwick has warned his players they must deliver during the upcoming autumn Nations Championship or risk missing selection for the 2027 World Cup. With only 12 Tests remaining before the tournament, Borthwick emphasized that players are actively fighting for squad places ahead of matches against Australia, Japan, and New Zealand. Bywater argues that this ultimatum provides much-needed accountability following England's fifth-place finish in the Six Nations.

England faces squad fitness concerns ahead of the campaign opener against Australia. Fly-half Fin Smith is recovering from a calf injury, though George Ford and Marcus Smith remain available if needed. Bath flanker Guy Pepper and Bristol centre Benhard Janse van Rensburg have been ruled out for the autumn campaign, while wing Immanuel Feyi-Waboso is expected to be fit.

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