Shaun Edwards has revealed that England head coach Steve Borthwick declined his offer to join the squad for the 2027 Rugby World Cup in Australia. The renowned defensive specialist, who recently concluded a six-year tenure with France, stated he was willing to take on any role, including “assistant kit man,” to support the Three Lions. Edwards made the disclosure during an appearance on the BBC’s Rugby Union Weekly podcast, highlighting his eagerness to contribute to England’s campaign despite Borthwick’s decision to retain his existing staff.
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Edwards’ departure from French rugby follows a highly successful period where Les Bleus secured three Six Nations titles, including consecutive victories in 2025 and 2026. The 60-year-old has since transitioned to a short-term engagement with the England women’s team before moving to Argentina’s coaching staff until the conclusion of next year’s World Cup. His availability for the 2027 tournament underscores his continued relevance in top-tier rugby, even as he navigates a new phase of his career away from full-time head coaching roles.
With England set to face Australia at Twickenham’s Allianz Stadium on Sunday, followed by fixtures against Japan and New Zealand, Borthwick’s decision to stick with his current personnel signals confidence in his tactical framework. While Edwards’ offer demonstrated a willingness to subordinate his status for the greater good of the national team, Borthwick’s refusal suggests a stable and cohesive environment that the head coach believes is essential for preparing for the upcoming international window and the long-term 2027 objective.
Source: Sky Sports
