Mapletoft out to build next generation

AS England’s U20s side prepare for the upcoming Six Nations, head coach Mark Mapletoft insists that the development of his players takes priority over results. 

- BEN JAYCOCK

England endured a disappointing Six Nations last year finishing fourth after losses to France and Ireland.

However, with numerous players in the squad having already made their Premiership debuts there’s a sense of excitement in camp.

Mapletoft, below right, is boosted by the fact there’s no European or Premiership action during the Six Nations, which means he shouldn’t face any recalls by clubs across the tournament that were detrimental to previous head coach Alan Dickens.

He told The Rugby Paper: “That’s a big plus because speaking to Alan he says that had caused a fair bit of disruption in the past. So, once players are fit and available they should be around for the duration.”

Mapletoft takes charge in his first full campaign steering the pathways side after three years of involvement with England U18s, as well as a decade worth of experience coaching Harlequins prior.

England took on a select XV from Bath last weekend scoring five tries in a 42-33 defeat at Dings Crusaders before their meeting yesterday at Oxford University.