1
Borthwick moves Wigglesworth in England coaching reshuffle
By PA
Richard Wigglesworth has been installed as Steve Borthwick’s number two in England’s finalised coaching team for the upcoming autumn series.
Wigglesworth’s duties overseeing the attack have been widened to include helping devise the overall gameplan for the fixtures against New Zealand, Australia, South Africa and Japan.
Felix Jones will continue to work remotely next month after the Irish defence coach unexpectedly handed in his resignation in August.
Jones is contracted to work a 12-month notice period and details over his future are likely to be provided on Wednesday when Borthwick names his squad for the autumn.
Joe El-Abd, the Oyonnax director of rugby, has taken charge of the defence while continuing his work with the French club until the end of the season.
“Richard’s deep knowledge of the game and his excellent tactical understanding means he has become a key figure in our coaching team,” Borthwick said.
“He shares our emotional commitment to English rugby and I am certain he will play a crucial role in driving the standards of this England team.”
Wigglesworth now has the title of senior assistant coach, with El-Abd, Tom Harrison, Kevin Sinfield and Andrew Strawbridge completing Borthwick’s backroom staff ahead of the opener against the All Blacks on November 2.
Trending on RugbyPass
2
Initial Immanuel Feyi-Waboso injury update does not sound promising
3
Ex-Wallaby explains why All Blacks aren’t at ‘panic stations’
4
Leinster player ratings vs Connacht | 2024/25 URC
5
Latest Comments
Don't think you've watched enough. I'll take him over anything I's seen so far. But let's see how the future pans out. I'm quietly confident we have a row of 10's lined uo who would each start in many really good teams.
Go to commentsHopefully Joe stays where he is. That would mean Les, McKellar, larkham and Cron should as well. It’s the stability we need in the state programs. But, if Joe goes, RA with its current financial situation will be forced into promoting from within. And this will likely destabilise other areas.
To better understand some of the entrenched bitterness of those outside of NZ and NSW (as an example 😂), Nic, there is probably a comparison to the old hard heads of welsh rugby who are still stuck in the 1970s. Before the days where clubs merged, professionalism started, and the many sharp knives were put into the backs of those who loved the game more than everyone else. I’m sure you know a few... But given your comparison of rugby in both wales and Australia, there are a few north of the tweed that will never trust a kiwi or NSWelshman because of historical events and issues over the history of the game. It is what it is. For some, time does not heal all wounds. And it is still festering away in some people. Happy holidays to you. All the best in 2025.
Go to comments