Rugby Football Union extends Steve Borthwick's contract as England head coach

The Rugby Football Union is extending the contract of England head coach Steve Borthwick through mid-2028. This decision provides stability for the coaching staff ahead of next year's Rugby World Cup in Australia. Performance director Conor O'Shea stated the extension prevents uncertainty regarding job security while the team prepares for the global tournament. Borthwick, who took over in December 2022, maintains the backing of the governing body despite a difficult Six Nations campaign earlier this year. The union remains committed to its policy of only selecting players based in the English Premiership, a rule O'Shea defended as essential for the long-term health of the domestic game. While the RFU has provided this mid-term security, it has not committed to a longer-term appointment beyond the upcoming World Cup cycle.

• 9:25 AMThe Guardian Sport — England to extend Borthwick contract as Pollock closes on £400k Northampton deal
• 7:49 AMYahoo Sports — England set to offer Steve Borthwick contract extension beyond World Cup
• 6:32 AMYahoo Sports — England to extend head coach Borthwick's contract
• 6:23 AMBBC Sport — England to extend head coach Borthwick's contract