Steve Borthwick turns to 2003 World Cup heroes for Six Nations inspiration

Guardian Sport

by Gerard Meagher

February 25, 2026

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Steve Borthwick, England’s rugby union head coach, has turned to the country’s 2003 World Cup-winning heroes for inspiration amid a challenging Six Nations campaign. With his team struggling and key player Alex Mitchell ruled out due to injury, Borthwick organized a dinner with legends like Martin Johnson, Jason Leonard, and Lewis Moody to draw on their expertise and experience. This move reflects Borthwick’s efforts to turnaround England’s fortunes by seeking guidance from proven leaders in the sport. The decision came after another setback for England, as scrum-half Alex Mitchell was ruled out for the remainder of the tournament, adding to an already difficult campaign. The dinner with the 2003 World Cup squad aimed to reignite a sense of unity and resilience within the team. Players and staff dined with Johnson, Leonard, and Moody, who played pivotal roles in England’s historic victory. This initiative underscores Borthwick’s belief that learning from past successes can help navigate current challenges. Among those sharing their wisdom was Lewis Moody, a key player during the 2003 World Cup, who recently revealed his battle with motor neurone disease. His presence added an emotional layer to the gathering, emphasizing the importance of perseverance and legacy in sports. The inclusion of Test centurion Jason Leonard, known for his durability and leadership, further highlighted the value of experience in rebuilding England’s performance. This strategy matters because it taps into a rich vein of rugby knowledge and resilience, which Borthwick hopes will inspire his squad to regroup and perform better in upcoming matches. By engaging with legends who have faced similar challenges and achieved greatness, Borthwick aims to instill a sense of belief and unity within the team. For sports fans, this approach offers insight into how leadership and legacy can play a crucial role in turning around struggling teams. The move also

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Originally published on Guardian Sport on 2/25/2026