Sam Warburton: Gatland wrote two words on a whiteboard and it changed everything for WalesSam Warburton believes Steve Borthwick can learn a lesson from Warren Gatland after defeat by Scotland last weekView Image Sam Warburton and Warren GatlandSam Warburton has highlighted the importance of a head coach in times of adversity and believes a trick Warren Gatland once used for his deflated Wales players could be a lesson for England in this Six Nations. ‌Writing in The Times, former Wales captain Warburton has recalled the moment in 2013 when Wales’ title defence appeared to be unravelling after a chastening 30-22 defeat to Ireland in Cardiff, a game in which they had trailed 30-3. “This looked as if it was going to be some sort of physical punishment for what had happened at the weekend,” Warburton said. Back in the team room, Warburton gathered the squad and delivered a simple message to the team, that the championship was still alive. ‌Wales went on to claim the 2013 Six Nations title, sealing it in emphatic fashion with a 30-3 demolition of England in Cardiff to deny their rivals a Grand Slam.

Source: Daily Mirror February 20, 2026 13:26 UTC