Haskell backs Borthwick and Pollock ahead of Nations Championship

James Haskell has backed Steve Borthwick and praised Henry Pollock as England prepare for the conclusion of the inaugural Nations Championship. This month, the team are due to face Australia, Japan and New Zealand before Finals Weekend, scheduled for November 27-28 at Twickenham.

The former England international’s support comes after a difficult Six Nations campaign. Earlier this year, England lost four of their five matches. Sky Sports says the RFU's public backing of Borthwick is set to continue until the 2027 Rugby World Cup in Australia, despite increasing pressure. Haskell, who earned 77 caps between 2007 and 2019, believes this is not the time to change the head coach.

He also points to England’s 12-game unbeaten run ahead of the 2026 Six Nations. “The RFU have got behind Steve Borthwick, and rightly so,” he said. His verdict is clear: “I think he’s the right man for the job.” Haskell argues that the difference between good spells and setbacks is not as stark as some suggest: “It’s never as bad as you think it is and it’s never as good as you think it is.”

To support that view, he highlights the team’s ability to create chances and the difference in how often they turn them into points. During the 12-game unbeaten run, England took points 83 per cent of the time they reached the 22-metre line, he said. In defeats, they created similar opportunities but came away with points less than 33 per cent of the time. “And that’s the fine margins,” Haskell said.

The former international also praised rising star Henry Pollock’s attitude and style. He believes the player has “that X-factor” and generates debate. Haskell hopes Pollock will get more opportunities to play for England, adding that he delivers when chances come his way. In Haskell’s view, that kind of personality can challenge the expectations of rugby’s more conservative circles.