The English rugby team's recent performance has been shrouded in a cloud of uncertainty, with a review of their Six Nations finish revealing a host of issues that need addressing. The review, conducted by the RFU, identified several areas where the team is falling short, including discipline, execution of opportunities, and making the most of key moments. Despite a 12-game winning streak, England's performance in the Six Nations was underwhelming, finishing in fifth place. The review concluded that this was not due to a single failure but rather a combination of interconnected performance areas. Head coach Steve Borthwick was retained, but the team's performance at Ellis Park against South Africa has raised concerns.
One of the main issues highlighted was the team's kicking strategy. England's kick-chase has fallen away alarmingly, with a poor return rate on contestable kicks. Despite launching more contestable kicks than any other nation, they finished below the tournament average in the reclaim stakes. This is particularly concerning given the team's success on their 12-match unbeaten run, which was largely attributed to a high-quality contestable kicking game and a quick, combative back-row with multiple number sevens.
The review also identified a lack of discipline, with England conceding a tournament-high eight yellow cards and one red card, as well as 55 total penalties. This is a significant issue, as it has left the team playing with an arm behind their back, making it difficult to win Test matches against the big teams. The problem was encapsulated at the start of the second half, when the team's failures in aerial combat and ill-discipline led to a penalty count that was five-to-one in favor of the home side.
The team's defense has also been a concern, with England conceding 158 points in their past four games at an average of 40 points per game. This is a significant drop-off from their previous performance, and it is unclear how the team will address these issues moving forward. The review panel's assertion that the team's way of playing was clear throughout the review may be true, but it is far less clear to supporters and students of the game, and worryingly, it looks unsure to those on the field.
The English rugby team is currently facing a peculiar fog, and the way out is mired in uncertainty. It remains to be seen how the team will address these issues and whether they will be able to turn their fortunes around in the future.
