England head coach Steve Borthwick is facing a significant challenge to retain his prized coaching team as two Premiership clubs circle key members of his Rugby Football Union staff.
Premiership Clubs Target RFU Talent
Saracens, the reigning Premiership champions, have identified defence coach Kevin Sinfield as their primary target to fill their vacant head coach position. The North London club are seeking a replacement for Joe Shaw, who departed alongside former director of rugby Mark McCall.
Simultaneously, Newcastle Falcons are pursuing a different member of Borthwick's backroom team as they look to rebuild following their relegation from English rugby's top flight.
Timing Creates Major Headache for Borthwick
The potential double raid comes at a particularly delicate time for the England setup. With less than twelve months until the 2024 Six Nations and crucial autumn internationals on the horizon, Borthwick faces the prospect of rebuilding his coaching team during a critical preparation period.
Sinfield's situation presents the most immediate concern, given his pivotal role in transforming England's defensive structures since joining the national setup. His partnership with Borthwick dates back to their successful tenure at Leicester Tigers, where they guided the club to Premiership glory.
Contract Complications Loom Large
While RFU staff are technically employed by the governing body rather than directly by the England team, the timing of any departures would require careful negotiation. The traditional understanding has been that club roles would only become available during natural breaks in the international calendar.
However, the current approaches test this convention, potentially forcing Borthwick to contemplate coaching changes during a packed international schedule. The situation highlights the ongoing tension between club and country interests in English rugby.
With both clubs expected to formalise their approaches in the coming days, Borthwick and RFU CEO Bill Sweeney face crucial decisions that could significantly impact England's preparations for the upcoming international season.
