ENGLAND BOSS STEVE BORTHWICK LOOKS TO RAID SOUTH AFRICA AGAIN FOR FELIX JONES REPLACEMENT – REPORT
Steve Borthwick could once again tap into the wealth of knowledge in South Africa for his next defence coach, according to a report.
England are seeking a replacement for Irishman Felix Jones, who is set to depart the national team having quickly become dissatisfied since taking the role following the 2023 Rugby World Cup.
It has been reported that Jones was “unhappy with the unstable working environment” and duly tendered his resignation.
Changing the defence structure
His departure could well be a huge blow for the Red Rose, whose defence has been revolutionised since the arrival of the 37-year-old.
After joining from the double defending world champions, where he had worked since 2019, he set about implementing a Springboks-style blitz defence.
Despite some teething issues early on, it appeared to be paying dividends, but his shock departure has left Borthwick with some thinking to do.
The head coach may therefore look to South Africa once more for Jones’ replacement with Stormers coach Norman Laker high up on the shortlist, according to Rapport.
Laker has been with the Cape Town outfit as their defence guru for the past five years and is contracted until 2027, but there is a clause in his deal which allows him to depart should an international opportunity develop.
Like Jones, Laker is a young coach, but his career started at the age of 21 at the WP Rugby Institute and he has gradually risen up through the ranks.
He was linked with the Springboks after the World Cup following the departure of Jacques Nienaber to Leinster, but the role of defence coach was eventually given to Jerry Flannery.
Continuity
Should Borthwick attempt to bring in the Stormers coach, it suggests that England’s head honcho is looking for continuity after the progress they have made with Irishman Jones.
While the way in which England defends will inevitably be slightly different from the Boks and their franchises, the principles remain the same.
That ultra-aggressive blitz is very much a hallmark of South African rugby and it is something the Red Rose have adopted over the past year.
It has helped bring about an improvement in their performances. They beat Ireland and ran France close in the Six Nations before heading to New Zealand and narrowly succumbing twice in two tight Tests in Dunedin and Auckland.
2024-09-15T10:14:13Z dg43tfdfdgfd