We need an agenda for regeneration and change

SACKING head coach Steve Borthwick and RFU CEO Bill Sweeney will not solve England’s problems because those problems are too complex and deep-rooted.

They are not problems that can be solved by the Rugby Football Union because the RFU is a major part of the problem.

They are not problems that can be solved by the Premiership clubs because they are also part of the problem.

They are not problems that can be solved by the grassroots clubs, schools and universities because they have no voice and no financial clout.

When Jamie George said after the South African game that the “players must work harder” he is wrong. The players must work better.

A gathering of wiser people than me is required to examine the English game in all its complexities and tasked to develop an agenda for change and regeneration.

This is what should be discussed:

1. There should be clearly defined pathways for all English qualified players to the England national team. There should be clear pathways to excellence in all aspects of English rugby – coaching, community engagement, mental and physical health, sporting ethics.

2. All professional contracts, playing, coaching and administrative, at whatever level of the game, should incorporate three hours per week of coaching and/or community service.