England swat aside Wallabies to back up Borthwick
England's rugby team secured a decisive 45-point victory over Australia, easing pressure on head coach Steve Borthwick following a period of poor form and internal rumors. The performance was marked by seven tries and a high level of physical and tactical execution.
Why it matters
The win serves as a critical validation for the coaching staff and restores confidence in the team ahead of upcoming matches against New Zealand.
Figure caption, England ease pressure on Borthwick after big win over Australia
BBC Sport rugby union news reporter Published 1 hour ago England (19) 45
Tries: George, Chessum, Heyes, Van Poortvliet, Pollock (2), Spencer Cons: F Smith (5 )
Tries: Jorgensen, Daugunu, Williams Cons: Lonergan, Donaldson Pens: Lonergan
England provided emphatic on-pitch backing for head coach Steve Borthwick as they scored seven tries to swat aside a listless Australia at Allianz Stadium.
The build-up was marked by questions over England's form, which has been poor for most of 2026, and a reported rift between players and coaches during the summer.
Senior players angrily insisted on Friday the squad and staff were still united, and their performance on Sunday would demonstrate as such.
There are stiffer Tests to come, with New Zealand arriving in a fortnight, but Borthwick sailed through this referendum with flying colours.
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