Shaun Edwards has confirmed that England head coach Steve Borthwick declined his offer to join the senior men’s coaching staff for the 2027 Rugby World Cup. The 60-year-old defence specialist, who recently departed his role with France, stated he was prepared to take on any available position, including assistant kit man, to support the squad. Edwards disclosed the details of their phone conversation, noting that Borthwick was “very, very honest” in his refusal, a response Edwards respected despite the setback.
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Following the rejection from the England setup, Edwards has secured a new professional commitment with Argentina, agreeing to work with the Pumas until the conclusion of the tournament. This move comes after a brief interim stint with England’s women’s side, marking a significant shift in Edwards’ international career as he seeks to remain active at the highest level of rugby. The decision underscores the competitive nature of coaching appointments ahead of the World Cup, where national unions are finalizing their technical staffs.
The revelation highlights the complex dynamics within the England Rugby leadership as they prepare for the upcoming cycle. While Borthwick’s decision to maintain his current coaching structure has been met with mixed reactions, Edwards’ willingness to serve in a non-coaching capacity demonstrates his enduring loyalty to the sport. As the 2027 World Cup approaches, the focus remains on how both England and Argentina will leverage their respective technical teams to maximize performance on the global stage.
Source: BBC Sport
