Self-awareness spurs ambition like nothing else. Despite a perfect year in terms of results, Eddie Jones’ England need no reminding of their standing in the global order. With New Zealand occupying the…
Charlie Morgan
Analysis: Mapping June’s scrum battle between England and Australia
If Eddie Jones’ year in charge of England has taught us anything, it is that the 56 year-old has become an expert at using press duties to set an agenda.…
Analysis: Spotlight on New Zealand’s kicking against Ireland
As his England side prepared to take on Steve Hansen’s men in the autumn of 2013, with a three-Test summer tour of New Zealand on the horizon, Stuart Lancaster stressed…
Analysis: Mapping the involvements of Jonny Gray and Alun Wyn Jones
As hypothetical selections swirl around the internet and coach Warren Gatland is rolled out by sponsors to deliver soundbites, one thing about next summer’s British and Irish Lions tour to New…
Analysis: Slick Australia attack makes Wales look sluggish
A strangely subdued atmosphere descended on the Principality Stadium this weekend. All verve seemed to have drifted up through the open roof and away into Cardiff’s crisp autumn air. The…
Analysis: Glasgow Warriors out-think and overpower Leicester Tigers
On-field action was comprehensively overshadowed by the gut-wrenching loss of Anthony Foley, but an entertaining opening round of European Champions Cup action still provided some thoroughly impressive performances. Glasgow Warriors’…
Analysis: Six minutes that defined the resilience of Saracens
More than any athletic attribute, the one quality that Maro Itoje’s clubmates value highest in their young lock is an uncanny capacity to learn. Saracens playmakers know they only need…
Analysis: Guy Thompson embodies grit and graft of Wasps
Guy Thompson began September 3, the first day of the Championship season, sitting on the fence. With Jersey travelling to newly-promoted Richmond, two of his previous teams were in action. Via…
Analysis: Counting down the Leicester Tigers comeback
Every so often, usually in dry conditions on a hard pitch, a chaotic encounter causes witnesses to scratch their heads. On Friday night at Kingsholm, where Leicester Tigers secured an…
Analysis: New Zealand blindside Australia for Bledisloe victory
August 16, 2014 – precisely two years and two weeks ago – saw Australia hold New Zealand to a 12-12 draw at a sopping wet ANZ Stadium in Sydney. Neither…