Smith and Arundell spark England to give Borthwick food for thought

24/09/2023 23:00

Free-flowing rugby on show in the demolition of Chile leaves England's coach with a tricky decision before the Samoa test

In a town once known as "the casino of the forest", where Ian Fleming would come to write his James Bond novels and find time for the odd game of cards, Steve Borthwick has much to ponder as England head into their World Cup rest week. Namely: to stick or twist.

The squad has largely dispersed for a few days with England not due to resume training until Thursday – their next match against Samoa is not until 7 October – so Borthwick has plenty of thinking time. Summer has turned to autumn in Le Touquet and the population is dwindling so a few long walks may be in order because England's performance in the 71-0 win over Chile has provided him with food for thought.