Richard Wigglesworth has been appointed as England’s senior assistant coach under head coach Steve Borthwick, as announced by the Rugby Football Union (RFU) on Monday. This change comes amid a series of recent staff adjustments for the senior team at Twickenham.
The 41-year-old former England scrumhalf, who took on the role of attack coach prior to last year’s World Cup, is set to play a significant role as England prepares for the upcoming Autumn Nations Series, which includes matches against New Zealand, Australia, South Africa, and Japan.
Wigglesworth will collaborate closely with Borthwick to enhance England’s overall game plan and attacking tactics, as well as assist in daily leadership and the management of the coaching staff, according to the RFU.
Borthwick, who has a history of working with Wigglesworth at Leicester Tigers, praised his deep understanding of the game and tactical acumen, emphasizing that he has become an essential member of the coaching team. Borthwick expressed confidence that Wigglesworth’s commitment to English rugby will be pivotal in raising the standards of the national team.
This appointment follows the recent hiring of Joe El-Abd as the new defence coach, taking over from Felix Jones, who resigned in August. Kevin Sinfield will continue in his dual role as a mentor and skills and kicking coach, albeit in a primarily part-time capacity. Recently, Premiership clubs voted against allowing Phil Morrow, an assistant at Saracens, to succeed Aled Walters as head of strength and conditioning while maintaining his role with the London club.