Maro Itoje has once again voiced his confidence in head coach Steve Borthwick, asserting that England has the potential to accomplish "extraordinary things" under his guidance, even after a disappointing Six Nations campaign. The English side’s performance in the most recent Six Nations tournament was far below expectations, culminating in a fifth‑place finish after four consecutive defeats, including a historic first‑ever loss to Italy on the international stage. The poor showing prompted a wave of criticism, but the RFU’s chief executive, Bill Sweeney, has signalled that Borthwick will retain his position and will be tasked with steering England through the upcoming summer tour, which will form part of the inaugural Nations Championship.
This tour will see England face South Africa, Fiji and Argentina in July, providing Borthwick with a crucial opportunity to demonstrate that he can reverse the team’s fortunes. A successful performance on this tour could secure his contract through to its natural expiry after the 2027 Rugby World Cup in Australia. Itoje, who captains England, acknowledged that the squad fell short of the standards they set for themselves at the start of the Six Nations. The team entered the tournament riding an impressive eleven‑test winning streak, yet they struggled to translate that momentum into results.
Despite the setbacks, Itoje remained steadfast in his belief that the coaching staff, led by Borthwick, possess the expertise and vision required to bring the side back to form. Speaking to Sky Sports at the Football Black List event, the captain emphasized the collective belief within the group.
"We believe in what we're doing," he said, highlighting the unity and shared purpose that still exists among the players and staff. He praised Borthwick’s leadership, describing him as "a great coach," and also commended the contributions of the assistant coaches: Richard Wigglesworth, Kevin Sinfield, Joe Shaw and Lee Blackett, all of whom he referred to as "great coaches" in their own right. Itoje stressed that the key to moving forward lies in cohesion and learning from the recent failures. "We just need to get together as a team, learn the lessons and move positively forward," he explained.
He admitted that the outcomes in the Six Nations were not as successful as the squad had hoped, but insisted that his own confidence in the team’s potential has not wavered. "I have a lot of faith, a lot of belief in this England team, and I think this England team is going to go on to do special things," he added. The captain’s remarks underscore a broader narrative within English rugby: the recognition that a single tournament does not define a team's identity, and that rebuilding often requires patience, introspection, and strategic adjustments.
The upcoming summer tour will serve as a litmus test for Borthwick’s tactics and the squad’s resilience. Facing world‑class opposition such as South Africa, a powerhouse with a rich rugby heritage, alongside the dynamic styles of Fiji and the physicality of Argentina, will challenge England to adapt and evolve. If England can produce competitive performances, or even secure victories, against these opponents, it will not only restore confidence among the players but also reassure the RFU hierarchy and the fan base that the team is on the right trajectory.
A strong showing could also influence contract negotiations, potentially extending Borthwick’s tenure beyond the 2027 World Cup, a milestone that would provide continuity and stability for the national side. Beyond the immediate tactical considerations, Itoje’s comments reflect a deeper cultural shift within the England camp. By openly acknowledging the need for collective learning and emphasizing the importance of team unity, he is fostering an environment where accountability and mutual support are paramount.
This mindset aligns with modern high‑performance sport, where psychological resilience and a growth‑oriented culture are as vital as physical preparation. The broader rugby community will be watching closely as England prepares for the summer fixtures. Analysts will dissect Borthwick’s selections, the integration of emerging talent, and the tactical tweaks that may be required to counter the distinct playing styles of their opponents.
Fans, still reeling from the Six Nations disappointment, will be eager for signs of progress and will likely measure success not only by wins but also by the quality of play, defensive solidity, and the ability to execute a clear game plan. In summary, Maro Itoje’s reaffirmation of faith in Steve Borthwick and the coaching staff serves as a rallying cry for the England rugby union.
While the Six Nations campaign ended in a sobering fifth place, the captain’s optimism suggests that the team’s journey is far from over. With a crucial summer tour on the horizon, the squad has an opportunity to regroup, apply the lessons learned, and demonstrate that they can indeed achieve the "special things" they aspire to. The next few months will be decisive in shaping the narrative of England’s rugby future, and if the players and coaches can harness their collective belief, they may well emerge stronger, more cohesive, and ready to contend on the world stage.