Steve Borthwick: Gregor Townsend Deserves More Support from Scotland Fans
Steve Borthwick believes Scotland fans should celebrate Gregor Townsend's coaching successes, rather than calling for his dismissal. With the Six Nations game against England looming, Townsend, the Scotland head coach, is under severe pressure after losing to Italy 18-15 on Saturday. Scotland also had a poor autumn, losing to Argentina and New Zealand despite leading in both matches.
Many former Scotland players, including Times columnist John Barclay, believe Townsend's time is up. However, Borthwick said any calls for the 52-year-old's dismissal are premature, highlighting Townsend's 54% win rate during his nine years in charge as a reason for his respect. Borthwick praised Townsend's coaching skills, stating that he has the best win record of any Scotland coach in the professional era.
Townsend is under severe pressure, with several former Scotland players believing it is time to move on. Borthwick, however, believes Townsend deserves more support from fans. He highlighted Townsend's successful coaching of the attack and ball movement, stating that Scotland fans should spend more time supporting him.
Borthwick also made three tweaks to his England side, who beat Wales 48-7 on Saturday, to open the championship. He dropped Marcus Smith for Fin Smith on the bench and brought Maro Itoje back into the starting XV. Jamie George will bring his experience from the bench in the second half, while Luke Cowan-Dickie is promoted to start at hooker. Fin Smith will cover centre as well as No10, while Tommy Freeman or Henry Arundell will move to full back if Freddie Steward has to go off.
Ben Earl, the No8, and Henry Pollock, the replacement back-row forward, are also covering the backs. Pollock may shift to the wing at Murrayfield if required. Borthwick praised Pollock's versatility, stating that his skill set and playing style allow him to roam freely and find the ball. England has not won at Murrayfield since 2020, but Borthwick knows his team will embrace the hostile environment.
Borthwick believes his team thrives on big occasions and great stadiums. He recalled a conversation with Jamie George about playing in Japan, where the temperature and humidity were high, and the kick-off time was 2 pm. George was confident, stating that they would adapt. Borthwick praised the team's attitude, stating that they embrace challenges and enjoy playing in packed stadiums, such as Murrayfield, where the fans create a vibrant atmosphere.
