Steve Borthwick Grants Lee Blackett Freedom to Revamp England’s Attack
Lee Blackett was given full licence by head coach Steve Borthwick to overhaul England’s attacking play this summer, delivering 13 tries and three wins during his audition for a full-time role.
Blackett Transforms England Attack
Lee Blackett, Bath’s attack coach, joined England’s setup for two Tests against Argentina and a match versus the United States this summer, stepping in while 15 players toured with the British and Irish Lions. Under Steve Borthwick, Blackett was granted full licence to reshape the attack, a move that yielded 13 tries and three wins.
“Steve made it clear from the start that while we’d retain some existing structures, our attack must reflect my own ideas,” Blackett told INLIBER’s Rugby Union Weekly. “That vote of confidence from him was crucial.”
Coaching Journey and Ambitions
Following his successful spell, Blackett will join England full-time after the RFU secured his release from Bath at the end of September. Last season, he guided the Premiership champions to an average of over five tries per game and previously led Wasps and spent a year with the Scarlets.
He also captained England’s A team to victory over Australia and Ireland’s second strings, gaining valuable experience working with fringe internationals. Meanwhile, Richard Wigglesworth, formerly the attack coach, has taken over defence, with Joe El-Abd shifting to a broader forwards strategy.
Team Dynamics and Farewells
Blackett praised his working relationship with Wigglesworth, recalling their school days competing in cricket and rugby. He also reflected on Bath head coach Johann van Graan’s support when Wasps folded in 2022: “He rang me that night; it showed his character.”
Blackett’s creative freedom has reinvigorated England’s attack and set the stage for continued innovation under his new full-time role.
This topic was reported by BBC Sport.
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