Empires have been built and demolished in Rome and English rugby suffered a seismic defeat that leaves big questions about Steve Borthwick’s future. England’s broken players gathered in a huddle on the pitch after the final whistle and Maro Itoje delivered some brow-beaten words. There were holes in their defensive line and Tommasso Menoncello ran between Joe Heyes and Sam Underhill to score. But, in the final play of the half, Smith delivered England’s standout moment. Lose in Paris next week and England could finish bottom, which does not reflect the talent Borthwick has at his disposal.

Source: Daily Mail March 08, 2026 00:04 UTC