Who could have imagined that England would finish third in the last World Cup?
Not many people, apart from the most ardent supporters.
However, with minimalist play and feverish confidence, the XV de la Rose - well helped by a favorable draw - was ultimately the best European team in the global competition.
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Ranking Tournament 6 of Nations
Calendar and results 6 Nations
Almost unimaginable given the chaotic season produced by Steve Borthwick's troupe.
For his first Tournament as coach, the former second row had experienced a real nightmare, including defeats at Twickenham against Scotland and France.
Read alsoRugby: “When the British press takes a dislike to you”, Lancaster looks back on the failure of the 2015 World Cup
Previously, the end of Eddie Jones' mandate had been particularly stormy.
Difficult to evacuate.
After putting England back in the spotlight (2019 World Cup final in Japan), the technician with abrupt and brittle methods had reached a dead end.
In 2022, the English had won only five of their twelve matches.
Indigent.
And the bad times in…
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