Earl says 'project will get better' despite losing run

The England head coach, Steve Borthwick, retains the unequivocal support of the Rugby Football Union and has been given a vote of confidence by senior players despite a dismal run of four successive defeats.

- Gerard Meagher

The back-rower Ben Earl has admitted the team are "testing the patience" of their supporters after yet another last-gasp defeat - this time by Australia - on Saturday but the Guardian understands that despite England plummeting to seventh in the world rankings, the RFU has no intention of sacking Borthwick, whose contract runs through to the 2027 World Cup.

Next up for England are the world champions South Africa - who have returned to the top of the rankings - next Saturday and avoiding a fifth straight loss has been made all the more difficult after Immanuel Feyi-Waboso and Tom Curry were last night ruled out after picking up injuries against the Wallabies.

England have won just four of their 10 Tests in 2024 - against Italy, Wales, Ireland and Japan. Since Borthwick took charge they have a 50% winning record from 26 matches and of late they have developed a worrying habit of losing close matches at the death.