🔗 Share this article

England's rugby squad are striving to implement the Bazball style championed by their cricketing teammates and deliver a significant impact for the country ahead of the forthcoming Ashes series. Steve Borthwick and assistants of his coaching team have held discussions with Brendon McCullum and want their side to make a rapid and intense kickoff to the Quilter Nations Series this weekend.

Forward-Thinking Approach Crucial

A shared ambition within the England squad to send a message over the autumn period, and the coach and his defensive coach Richard Wigglesworth have been learning from McCullum's expertise on the most effective ways to foster a positive approach. “Our meeting with Brendon McCullum and his coaching staff recently,” explained Wigglesworth. “It was a sit down and a coffee in Manchester which was highly productive.

“My questions focused on how he changed mindsets in the national cricket side which was really interesting. But then explored the technicalities of coaching someone personally and practical applications. I wouldn’t want to say one main thing because our conversation lasted for a considerable while and gained numerous insights, but they’re on to a winning formula.

“We also aim to become a team that can win in multiple different ways and adjust because each match is different. Our belief is we possess a versatile team so our intention is to play accordingly.”

Forging a New Era

Despite a streak of seven successive wins over the past season, England followers are still hoping for the launch of a spectacular new “Borthwick-style” era to rival the eye-catching style seen in cricket led by McCullum and Ben Stokes. The coming weeks, however, offer the prospect to take a important step forward with the fixture allocation for the 2027 Rugby World Cup set to be made in December.

Defeating the Australian side on Saturday, following closely the tour team’s summer series triumph, would further assist to offset Australia’s victory in the recent first rugby league Ashes Test prior to the beginning of cricket’s Ashes series. There are multiple keen cricket enthusiasts in the rugby side and Wigglesworth believes the “great rivalry” with the Wallabies inspires each side. “In my view, both sides really enjoy facing one another because it’s special. We aim to secure a win on Saturday.”

Growth from Past Tours

Wigglesworth was additionally a member of the Lions management who tasted success in Australia this summer and is convinced every English staff and squad taking part benefited from much from the tour. He has carefully declined the inclination to consult the former Wallaby coach, the ex- Wallaby assistant coach currently leading at Leicester, but says the demands of the tour has had “a major influence” on his style.

“When you work with top-level athletes, growth is natural, because they are often the greatest educators. It was a fantastic experience, gained invaluable insights, it was a great time and success was achieved. I think, the squad members have seen a difference in the lads who were fortunate to be part of a elite campaign. Until you’ve experienced it, you probably can’t understand. And the group who were in the tour have also clearly developed. So the both groups have merged very well.”

Strategic Progress

Wigglesworth’s role with the national side has changed with him now presiding over the squad’s defence, with expert guidance from Joe El-Abd and coaching staff. Previously, Australia capitalized on some defensive uncertainty to claim victory in the same match, but the opposition are likely to face more resistance now. “We definitely want a aggressive defensive system,” commented the coach, also seeking to encourage his players to react well in adversity.

“What I love about the game of rugby is that all contests is distinct and can be won in different ways. Is it wet? Officiating style? These factors go into the overall picture.” The former club player is furthermore certain that trusting the squad is the path forward for the side rather than constantly micro-managing them.

“I won’t decide our defensive system needs altering because of me and personal opinions. The more we develop as a unit, the more we are aware of what everyone wants mutually and what’s going to make us a really good squad. Subsequently the greater the squad members can assume responsibility. Ultimately you get to that optimal point of autonomy that is productive, not freedom that is doomed to disappoint.”