Much as I dislike Rassie's antics, there is a gulf in coaching ability between him and Borthwick. Rassie is always pushing the boundaries, trying novel things, testing law interpretations, experimenting etc. He's full of creative ideas. Borthwick is like a dementor for creativity, he saps it out of everyone around him. He seems to live off a spreadsheet with no feel for the game or new ideas.
I don't think England have bad players, god knows our population pool is one of the larger ones and our training and conditioning should be some of the best in the world. Where we are terrible is mentality and coaching. The last time an English side looked like they had real dog about them was in Jones first 2 years, we were a side you could never write off until the final whistle. I'd love to know how England were performed if they instead were coached in the South African system with the South African mentality. I'm sure they'd be doing way better.
This comes back to the Premiership argument again. Is it a tough enough breeding ground to prepare players for International rugby.
Now many on here argue strongly that it IS good enough, but ive seen so many arguing that its not. That the defence is optional approach might entertain but doesnt win Test Matches .
Do our referees manage the specifics as per other countries.
Do our referees manage the breakdown the same as other countries. I dont think they do. Defensive teams are generally penalized in cases to allow the attacking side the ball (dont penalise players off their feet for one example) and to allow the game to flow. This (in my opinion) is a big issue when players then go up to International level and how often do we get a hiding in this area internationally.
I can go on but i wont. I do think the prem needs an overhaul in what the requirements of the international and European rugby are and work towards building teams and players who can move up and are ready to compete.
