Borthwick impressed with intensity of Prem final
Steve Borthwick's hopes that England can enjoy a successful World Cup campaign were boosted by the “Test match” performances of some of his stars in the Premiership final.
The head coach and his players were upping the intensity and physicality of their build up to France with a second training camp down on the coast in Brighton.
The hot June weather would have added to what was already going to be a tough and testing week for the men hoping desperately to impress Borthwick and his coaching team as the battle.
Borthwick has been “delighted” with the fitness, hunger and commitment already shown by those fighting for places in his final World Cup squad of 33.
And he says the big shoot-out to the Premiership season at Twickenham which saw Owen Farrell leading Saracens eventually overwhelm Sale to lift a sixth title also gave him a big buzz.
Borthwick will have those Sarries and Sharks players available for the first time this week when the finalists are available to join in a training camp in Teddington – the third the head coach has overseen so far.
“What impressed me about that final was the sheer intensity of the game,” Borthwick said. “It was a high level, high quality contest, close to being a full-on Test match between two outstanding teams. I saw a lot of English internationals standing up and playing like Test players out there.
“Owen showed what a real leader and strong character he is when it matters, and I thought George Ford was very impressive in the way he managed the game after half-time. Max Malins and Elliot Daly were also very good, and the way Manu Tuilagi carried was outstanding. He's difficult to play against in that form. Also I'd like to highlight the way Tom Curry has came back late in the season and played so well.
“It was pleasing to see such a high standard from so many players. I could carry on with that list as there were so many excellent performances from players who are taking part in these training camps and challenging to be involved in the World Cup squad.”
Borthwick, right, added: “I'm looking for players who give their biggest games when everything is on the line. Players who can perform their best under the pressures involved.
“We have a group of young men who we need to bring together and build bonds, not just when they wear the same shirt on the field but when the are socialising off it. Getting all the details right in the preparation is key. We want to be in the best position possible to give it our very best shot and I am excited about what this team could achieve there.”
