England Rugby have confirmed that Richard Wigglesworth has been promoted to senior assistant coach of Steve Borthwick’s team.
The 41-year-old, who initially joined the coaching set-up as an assistant to head coach Steve Borthwick, overseeing the team’s attack, has taken on greater responsibility with the England Men’s Senior Team ahead of the forthcoming Autumn Nations Series.
Wigglesworth will work closely with Borthwick to develop England’s overall game plan and attacking strategy and will support the head coach in day-to-day leadership and managing the coaching group.
“Richard’s deep knowledge of the game and his excellent tactical understanding means he has become a key figure in our coaching team,” said Borthwick.
“He shares our emotional commitment to English rugby, and I am certain he will play a crucial role in driving the standards of this England team. I am delighted he has agreed to take on this new challenge.”
Wigglesworth, a renowned former scrum-half with over 300 Premiership appearances and 33 England caps, and an integral part of the England coaching setup since joining ahead of the 2023 Rugby World Cup, commented:
“Coaching is my passion, and I’m eager to do whatever I can to help this talented group of players win games of rugby, consistently.
“This is an exciting time for England Rugby. Steve has created a coaching environment based on collaboration and hard work, and we are constantly evolving and growing and striving for success.”
In addition to Wigglesworth’s promotion, England Rugby confirms the full coaching team set-up:
- Steve Borthwick – head coach
- Richard Wigglesworth – senior assistant coach (attack)
- Joe El-Abd – assistant coach (defence)
- Tom Harrison – assistant coach (scrum)
- Kevin Sinfield – assistant coach (skills & kicking)
- Andrew Strawbridge – assistant coach & coaching advisor
Borthwick added: “We have an outstanding group of coaches, who each bring unique expertise and experience to their roles. Together, we’re committed to helping the team reach new heights as we prepare for the upcoming Autumn Nations Series.”
England welcome New Zealand at Allianz Stadium, Twickenham on Saturday 2 November (kick-off 3.10pm) for their first match of the Autumn Nations Series, before taking on Australia, South Africa and Japan.
NIGEL OWENS DREAM XV:
Notably, a striking facet of Owens’ chosen players is their collective leadership qualities, with the majority of the selected individuals having served as captains for their respective nations.
Fullback: Israel Folau (Australia)
Owens said: “For me, it’s nip and tuck between Halfpenny and Folau, next to nothing to choose between them. Leigh is brilliant because under the high ball and with his kicking at goal under pressure. He may not always break the line when running but puts his body on the line in defence and is a top-notch match-winner.
“But I go for Folau – only just, I should stress – because of his ability to seemingly beat his man every time he gets the ball in his hand. He’s such an exciting player and like Leigh he is one of the best under the high ball.
“It’s a toss of a coin for me… and it’s come down in Folau’s favour.”
Winger: Stuart Hogg (Scotland)
Owens said: “How can you fail to be impressed when watching Hogg play. He’s so exciting as he burst into that line and, of course, was named Six Nations player of the tournament.
“I know he’s a full-back for Scotland, but he is so quick and direct he could easily play on the wing. He reminds me a bit of Shane Williams with some of the things he does.
“When you see who is on the other wing in my team, you’ll see how they would work brilliantly in tandem.”
Outside-centre: Brian O’Driscoll (Ireland)
Owens said: “Not only is he one of the greatest centres in the history of rugby union but he’s a fantastic man off the field as well. O’Driscoll has been a wonderful ambassador for the sport and a real leader. He always respected referees and set the right example for others to follow.
“A legend of the game who conducted himself superbly, on and off the pitch.”
Inside-centre: Ma’a Nonu (New Zealand)
Owens said: “He’s another brilliant player and after every game, win or lose, he would come up and give me a hug. Ma’a has always found time at after-match functions or at breakfast if we’ve been staying at the same hotel to come over and have a chat.
“What a player, mind, too. One of the stalwarts of the New Zealand side for so many years.”
Winger: Shane Williams (Wales)
Owens said: “When people ask me who is the best player I have refereed it’s pretty much an impossible task to pick one because I’ve been lucky enough to take charge of so many greats.
“But if I’m pushed, I would pick Shane for what he achieved after coming from football at 17 or 18 years of age.
“He was in the mould of Gerald Davies in how he left defenders gasping for air as he beat them with those dazzling sidesteps. Nobody would fancy defending against a back three of Shane, Hogg and Folau, I can tell you that.”
