Former Sales Sharks star Richard Wigglesworth will re-join ex Leicester Tigers colleagues in a new-look England coaching setup as Steve Borthwick continues his overhaul.
Lancashire-born Wigglesworth is a proven winner at domestic, European and International level.
The ex scrum-half is highly regarded by Borthwick having coached together in Leicester’s 2022 title winning season.
Borthwick has swiftly moved to reshuffle his coaching cabinet, stripping his former employer Leicester of three coaches.
Interim Head Coach Wigglesworth and Physical Performance Lead Aled Walters will depart Welford Road at the end of the season.
They will link up with fellow ex-Tiger coach Kevin Sinfield, tasked by Borthwick to sure up England’s leaking defence.
Conceding four tries in a home 23-29 defeat to Scotland suggest new system changes will take time to bed-in.
Sale Shark’s centre Manu Tuilagi was a surprise omission from Borthwick who favoured the versatility of Joe Marchant at 13.
It was Marchant who over-ran the defensive line in the 29th minute, missing a tackle on Duhan ver der Merew as the Scot converted a sensational solo effort.
The effectiveness of England’s 10-12 axis continues to draw criticism as playmakers Owen Farrell and Marcus Smith struggle to click.
England host Italy this weekend at Twickenham.
It might be the last chance Borthwick is willing to give the partnership as the Rugby World Cup draws closer.
Scrum-half is another position where Borthwick’s best option is unclear.
Jack van Poortvliet has not replicated the same level of performance seen during England’s summer series victory in Australia.
The door remains open for several inform 9s, including Sale’s Raffi Quirke, Bristol’s Harry Randall and Northampton’s Alex Mitchell.
(Pic courtesy Alamy Images, under paid licence)
