During England’s emphatic win against Japan in Tokyo, the voice of coach Kevin Sinfield was frequently audible.
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Commentator Tom May highlighted that Sinfield could be heard over the referee’s microphone, instructing England’s place-kickers during every kick.
Sinfield was methodically counting down in 20-second intervals to help the players focus on using the entire minute allowed by the shot clock, ensuring they weren’t distracted.
Earlier in January, Sinfield had announced his intention to step down after the summer tour. He plans to transition from his role as defence coach to a skills and kicking coach in 2024.
However, The Telegraph reports that Steve Borthwick is eager for Sinfield to remain beyond this summer’s tour, and the 43-year-old is now weighing his options.
The rugby league legend is currently grieving the tragic death of his close friend and MND campaigner, Rob Burrow.
A source said: “They are hoping to secure an extension. The boys love him.”
Any new role would likely be on a consultancy basis, allowing Sinfield the flexibility to pursue other opportunities while dedicating a couple of days a week during England’s camp to continue his work as a skills and kicking coach and mentor, particularly for the younger players in the squad.
It is understood that both parties are aligned and keen to agree on a deal.
Sinfield was awarded a CBE in the New Year’s Honours.
England player ratings vs Japan:
1 Bevan Rodd 6.5
Back in the squad for his first start since the Rugby World Cup win against Chile. Looked up to scratch following his Six Nations injury layoff. Made some short, sharp carries to grind out the hard yards over the gain-line. Received some medical attention after a battering collision just before the half time break. Off for Joe Marler at 43rd minute.
2 Jamie George (c) 7
Wonderfully overthrown line-out in the first half, which found Ollie Lawrence to set up Marcus Smith’s try. Gave away a penalty in the 31rd minute, as Japan pushed for territory downfield. Off for Theo Dan at 43 minutes.
3 Dan Cole 7
After a slow start from the entire England pack, Cole’s experience proved invaluable as the forwards regained the control up-front. Received some attention as his ear was bruised in the front row. Drove for the try-line from close range, but the Leicester man was held up at 48 minutes. Made a try-saving tackle at 53 minutes, as he halted the rapid pace of Japan’s offload attack. This tackle stopped the penalty try being awarded, after Marcus Smith’s early hit.
4 Maro Itoje, 7
Inch perfect work at the line-out, with his telepathic relationship showcased with hooker Jamie George. Solid under the high ball, as he was often the target of a Japan re-start. The lead decision maker for the many England vice-captains. Left in the trail behind Warner Dearns, as the Japan lock showcased immense one-handed skill on the run up to his side’s second try.
5 George Martin 7
A key turn over after seven minutes, as Japan threatened England’s try-line. The lock stepped up in the absence of Ollie Chessum, to form a solid second row duo with Maro Itoje. Pushed on to make key line-out contributions, despite picking up a couple of stinging injuries on his shoulders.
6 Chandler Cunningham-South 7.5
Dropped the kick off, but made a recovery. Turns his favours around by scoring England’s opening try in Tokyo, as he muscled over from close range. Received some brief treatment at 19 minutes, but muscled on for his first start. A monstrous hit at 26 minutes, as the Harlequin changed the momentum.
7 Sam Underhill 8
After a slower start by his high standards, the Bath man was at his bruising best after warming up his shoulders. Brilliant turnover at 46 minutes, as Underhill latched onto the ball and could not be shifted from the ruck. Brought England up to 50 points, as the forward pack bulldozed over from a rolling maul.