Steve Borthwick has made his first big move as England coach by appointing Harlequins assistant Nick Evans as his attack chief… but the former All Black will return to his club after the 2023 Six Nations
Steve Borthwick has made his first big move as England head coach by appointing Nick Evans as his attack chief for the 2023 Six Nations.
But bringing in the current Harlequins assistant and former fly-half is only a short-term arrangement for Borthwick as Evans will return to his club at the end of the Championship.
Evans’ imminent arrival in the England camp has raised questions about the future of Martin Gleeson, the attack coach Borthwick inherited when he replaced the sacked Eddie Jones last month.
Steve Borthwick has added Nick Evans to his coaching staff as attack chief for the Six Nations
England refused to confirm on Friday whether Gleeson had moved on or would be part of Borthwick’s squad until their Six Nations opener in Scotland on February 4.
‘I’m delighted Nick has joined our team ahead of the Six Nations,’ said Borthwick.
Evans brings a wealth of international experience to England’s set-up
‘Nick brings with him many different experiences as a player and coach which will be invaluable to the growth of our team.
‘I know Nick understands the pride and responsibility that comes with representing your country.
“We aim to build an England team that our country can be proud of and I know our supporters will be delighted with what Nick can bring to our side.
‘We would like to thank Harlequins for their support in allowing Nick to work with us during this period. This is a great example of club and country working together.’
Evans will return to work at Quins during the down weeks in the Six Nations.
The New Zealander helped the London side play an entertaining brand of rugby that won them the Premiership title in 2021.
Evans will be hoping to have a similar impact in England, whose attacking play has struggled badly in the autumn in what has been Jones’ final campaign in charge.
Borthwick was appointed as Eddie Jones’ successor in England management on 19 December
Former England forwards coach Matt Proudfoot has also moved on from Borthwick’s set-up.
Harlequins performance director Billy Millard said: ‘This is a fantastic opportunity for Nick where he will learn and grow so much which can only be good for the club.
‘I am also confident that he will provide Steve and the playing group with excellent support and direction during the 2023 Six Nations.’
Former England forwards coach Matt Proudfoot (L) has also moved on from Borthwick’s set-up
