Photo via BBC Sport

Borthwick turned down my offer to work with England - Edwards

Legendary defence coach Shaun Edwards revealed that England head coach Steve Borthwick declined his offer to join the backroom staff ahead of next year’s Rugby World Cup. Edwards, who recently wrapped up a stint with Argentina and previously led France to three Six Nations titles, had proposed working in a support role for England’s men’s team.

Borthwick, however, expressed satisfaction with his existing coaching team—including defence specialist Richard Wigglesworth—and Edwards respected the decision, citing the coach’s honesty in the conversation. The 60-year-old’s extensive resume includes three Six Nations Grand Slams with Wales, two Champions Cups, and four English titles during his tenure with Wasps, where he transitioned from defence coach to head coach.

Edwards also shared insights from his brief but impactful role with England’s women’s team, the Red Roses, highlighting their disciplined defensive effort in a 26-19 victory over New Zealand at the Allianz Stadium. The team’s 310 tackles in that match stood out as a career-high defensive achievement for Edwards, who noted the contrast in pre-match atmosphere between women’s and men’s rugby teams.

Up nextRugby· 2h ago

Scrum mechanics and a Gatland cameo: behind the scenes with the Nations Championship’s 13th team