Blackett's arrival signals fresh ambition for England

National team’s 11th attack coach in nine years will not prioritise ‘funky rugby’ with results key to development

- Robert Kitson

To say England have been through a few attack coaches in recent times is an understatement.

The latest cab off the rank, Lee Blackett, is the 11th individual to take on the role in nine years but it may just be that the national team have found the ideal catalyst to enhance their chances at the next men’s Rugby World Cup in 2027.

Blackett auditioned for the job on this summer tour of Argentina and the US, where England scored 13 tries in three Tests, and he has emerged as the big winner in Steve Borthwick’s latest reshuffle with Richard Wigglesworth switching to defence and Joe El-Abd helping out with the forwards.

Fresh from helping to steer Bath to Premiership and Challenge Cup titles last season, Blackett has been recruited to add further zest to England’s attacking game, starting with their opening autumn series international against Australia on 1 November. With about 20 Tests between now and the next World Cup, England will be keen for him to hit the ground running.