Flank Sam Underhill has labeled the upcoming Test against the Springboks as both a "massive challenge and a massive opportunity" for England. This comes after a lackluster Six Nations run, concluding with a nail-biting 48-46 defeat to France. Despite the setbacks, Underhill voiced strong support for head coach Steve Borthwick, as England gears up to face the formidable back-to-back World Cup champions, South Africa, in the new Nations Championship this July.
The clash scheduled for Ellis Park on July 4th promises to be a stern test for Borthwick’s team, who have struggled on South African soil, securing only one victory this century. Underhill remains optimistic, emphasizing the caliber of their opponents.
"It will be a massive challenge and a massive opportunity as well," Underhill said. "You always want to be playing against the best and that’s a testament to the Springboks. They have set an incredibly high bar as a team."
England's recent Six Nations campaign saw them finish fifth, marking their worst performance to date with a series of disappointing defeats, including a historic loss to Italy and a record defeat at home against Ireland. These results cast doubts over Borthwick’s leadership, especially after an ambitious declaration of aiming for a Grand Slam fell flat.
However, Underhill remains unwavering in his support for Borthwick.
"One hundred percent we back him," Underhill told reporters. "You have to. That’s part of the game. You’re either all in, or you’re not, you know. There are always external opinions, but ultimately the only people in the room are the coaches and the players,"
the 29-year-old added.The flanker also reflected on the team's performance issues, noting a lack of cohesion and discipline that was evident in their play. This was highlighted by several yellow cards, including those to Underhill himself, which proved costly in the matches against Italy and France.
"Ultimately, the players are the guys that have to go out there and put a performance out there on the weekend," Underhill remarked. "There are always going to be things you want to change or do differently. No one’s ever played a perfect game before, but for us as players, you want to play and get better. You want clarity from the coaches. I think you get that."
As England prepares to reset and face the Springboks, the upcoming games are not just about redemption but also about measuring up to the world's best on one of the toughest stages in international rugby.