There is a sprinkling of promise as England draw against the very strong New Zealand side and win against Japan. Unfortunately, they have gone on to lose against Argentina and then South Africa in their final game of the series. England supporters are now worrying for the future of this England side. Doubt is spreading across the nation; England rugby needs to change and quickly if they are to make a serious impact on the 2023 World Cup. 2023; new year, new head coach. Eddie Jones out and Leicester Tigers coach, Steve Borthwick, in. With the World Cup nearing, apprehension is growing and worries are escalating on how this big managerial change could save this underperforming England side. Preseason is now underway at the England camp and with a new Borthwick squad the team begin to work towards their test matches in this summer series. Three out of the four friendlies have resulted in a loss and now things really aren’t looking promising. Suddenly being an England supporter is tough work and fans are now left nervously anticipating England’s performances in September. The big stage in France is set and the 2023 World Cup is well underway. Week 1 England face Argentina and unlike last year they win 27-10. A masterclass kicking game is shown by second choice fly-half George Ford, scoring all 27 points for England from his boots. This win ignites belief in fans that there is potential for the side to go further than previously predicted.
Fans are now left nervously anticipating England’s performances.
Week 2 they are up against Japan in what seems to be a more difficult game, but England still manage to come out on top with a score of 34-12. Now they have beaten the two higher ranked teams of pool D and England are fuelled with confidence as they head into the third week. Up next – Chile. Henry Arundell makes his World Cup debut and not only scores his first world cup try but follows that with a further four. Along with Marcus Smith’s attacking flair and the team’s exciting and effective play, England end week three with a staggering 71-0 win. With bonus points, a head-to-head record and the other pool D results, England are confirmed as the group winners ahead of their clash against Samoa. Moments of luck have helped England get this far (Joe Marler’s header) but with determination, skill, and power there is potential for this side to go even further into the competition. 20 years since the last World Cup victory, could this be the year for England to go all the way again?