England head coach Steve Borthwick has confirmed Elliot Daly will play a pivotal role in his plans for the 2027 Rugby World Cup, as the versatile back prepares for his first international appearance since July.
Long-Term Vision for Experienced Star
Daly starts Sunday's final autumn international against Argentina at Allianz Stadium, marking his return to action after recovering from a serious forearm injury sustained during the British and Irish Lions tour of Australia.
The 33-year-old suffered the setback during the Lions' match against Queensland Reds on July 2nd, requiring surgery that involved inserting a plate with 16 screws. After receiving medical clearance, he now replaces the injured Tom Roebuck in one of six changes to the England side that defeated New Zealand 33-19.
Borthwick expressed strong confidence in Daly's extended international future, telling reporters: "I've no doubt he will be here for the next couple of years until the World Cup and somebody who reads the game as well as him can go even beyond that."
Injury Layoff Could Extend Career
The England coach believes Daly's recent spell out of the game might actually prolong his career at the highest level. "Elliot's had an incredible reconditioning period. He looks fresh, he looks energised and he sounds energised. He can't wait to go," Borthwick revealed.
He emphasised the value of rugby intelligence in extending playing careers: "It's a key aspect because players who read the game like he does, smart rugby players, can play even later in their careers."
Daly brings multiple weapons to England's arsenal, including:
- Exceptional ability to connect with teammates
- Strong skills under the high ball
- Long-range left-footed kicking
- Vast experience from 73 international caps
Senior Leadership Valued Highly
Borthwick highlighted Daly's importance as one of the squad's most experienced campaigners. "Experience is vital in Test rugby and you can see that now with this team," he stated. "When you're 12-0 down on the scoreboard, it's players who've been there, done it, experienced it, who are worth their weight in gold. Elliot's one of those."
The coach personally assured Daly of his plans during summer discussions: "We had a conversation back in the summer and I told him about how highly I rate him and that I want him to be part of this England squad over this next period."
Beyond his on-field contributions, Daly serves as a strategic sounding board for the coaching staff. "He's one of the most senior players we have so he's someone who I bounce ideas off and who I chat to regularly about where the team's at," Borthwick explained.
His influence extends to mentoring younger squad members, with Borthwick noting: "We've still got a lot of young players in the squad who look up to senior guys like him as role models."
England seek their eleventh consecutive victory and a clean sweep of autumn victories when they face Argentina, concluding a successful 2025 campaign.
