Steve Borthwick urges England to create moment to remember against South Africa
Friday 11 November 2016 14:46, UK
Steve Borthwick says it is vital England players create a moment to remember this weekend - because he has forgotten most of his big wins.
Forwards coach Borthwick and head coach Eddie Jones will aim to replicate the win they scored over South Africa for the Japan side in the most recent World Cup when the Springboks visit Twickenham on Saturday.
England having failed to win in their past 12 meetings with South Africa, a sequence which extends back to 2006 and includes 11 losses and a draw.
Borthwick admits the majority of his own career milestones have been forgotten in the blur of history and will stress to the players the importance of having recollections which stand out, with an overdue win over South Africa falling into that category.
"I was privileged to play a lot of games of rugby but, and I said this to the groups I captained at the end of my career, I don't actually remember an awful lot of them," former England captain Borthwick said.
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"When you look back there aren't really that many that stick out, so it's important for people to create really good memories and memories that stick out.
"It's hard to find a common trend through our period of poor results against South Africa.
"We know they're a very good side, but this is an opportunity for us to put that to bed and start a new record. That's what we've been preparing for.
"We all know that Test rugby is a major physical challenge and South Africa are one of the most confrontational teams, but this is Test match rugby.
"The players are physically and mentally well prepared. This group has really developed and the leadership has been strong, not just from the captain but also from the senior players."
