Borthwick claims players were unfit for start of series

Steve Borthwick has claimed his England players were not fit enough for Test rugby when they began their autumn internationals after Saturday's defeat by South Africa extended their dismal losing run.

- Gerard Meagher

In what could be construed as a tacit admission that Aled Walters' departure has been keenly felt, Borthwick has risked the ire of Premiership clubs by stating that his players' "condition" was not "where it needed to be" at the start of the month.

England have lost all three of their autumn Tests and five matches in a row for the first time since 2018.

Borthwick has insisted he has "absolute support" from the Rugby Football Union and it is understood his employers have no desire to sack the head coach despite England's plight.

On the eve of England's autumn campaign, the RFU announced 17 players would be receiving enhanced contracts as part of the new eight-year £264m Professional Game Partnership, which gives Borthwick greater control over his squad, particularly their strength and conditioning.

Over the summer, Borthwick was dealt a blow when Walters, his former head of strength and conditioning, resigned and jumped ship to Ireland.