These are still the earliest of early days and, as Kevin Sinfield knows better than most, life’s most worthwhile challenges are usually a marathon not a sprint. For anyone curious about England’s prospects in the 2023 Six Nations under new management, however, Sinfield’s first public utterances since joining the national coaching setup have already made clear that motivation in adversity will not be a problem.
No wonder Sinfield said he has noticed a “glint and sparkle in the players’ eyes” over the past two days as 45 players have gathered in Liverpool and Gloucester to meet their new coaches and undergo some physical tests. If some of that was down to the natural excitement of a clean selectorial slate, the chance to work with the inspirational Sinfield will be another significant opportunity.
