Springbok legend Victor Matfield believes England need to rediscover a sense of brotherhood if they are to break out of their current slump.
Steve Borthwick’s side suffered a third straight defeat when going down 23-18 to Italy in Rome on Saturday – England’s first-ever Test loss to the Azzurri in 33 meetings.
The result has intensified scrutiny on Borthwick’s position, although the RFU insists the head coach still has its backing.
Speaking on the Rugby Rivals podcast, Matfield recalled a conversation with Vodacom Bulls head coach Johan Ackermann and said team unity could be key to England turning their fortunes around.
“They [the Bulls] really struggled, but then when they went on tour they just decided that the players need to get closer. They had two ‘contikis’ every week – after the game and on a Wednesday night. They had a fines session with a couple of beers and it just brought the guys together. All of a sudden, they’re playing really well.”
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Matfield insisted players must still enjoy the game despite the pressures of Test rugby.
“I think you can never take that out of the game. The guys need to focus but they’ve got to have fun and they must enjoy each other’s company. Because if they don’t have that, I don’t think they can go out there and play for each other on the field.”
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England have made just one change for their Six Nations clash with defending champions France in Paris on Saturday.
Ollie Chessum comes in at blindside flank as England look to avoid their worst-ever finish in the competition.
Photo: David Rogers/Getty Images
