Borthwick says England failed to meet ‘unwavering standards’ after axing players

Steve Borthwick says of England: ‘In the last two weeks there are some key aspects of things that weren’t good enough.’ Photograph: Peter Cziborra/Action Images/Reuters

Steve Borthwick has pointed to his misfiring players’ failure to meet his unwavering standards as justification for the most radical England overhaul in the professional era, after ripping up his side for the Six Nations clash against Italy on Saturday.

Borthwick has wielded the axe for the match in Rome on Saturday, ­making nine personnel and three position changes, and sent a clear message to his out-of-form players that performances have not been up to scratch. The head coach has also fielded an entirely new backline with Tommy Freeman, the only survivor from the 42-21 defeat by Ireland, shifting from wing to outside‑centre.