As England prepare for their high-stakes clash against New Zealand this weekend, they’ve been boosted by a special guest — tennis star Emma Raducanu. The 2021 US Open champion joined Steve Borthwick’s squad at their Bagshot training base on Tuesday, offering insights from her experience in elite-level sport.
Raducanu observed the team’s training session and even took part in a few light activities, including a kicking session with fly-half Marcus Smith and a lineout drill with prop Fin Baxter. “She was really good — even caught the ball,” Baxter shared with a laugh. “It was a cool way to meet her. The pressure she’s faced in her career is something we can all learn from.”
England’s camp also welcomed Brighton manager Fabian Hurzeler, the Premier League’s youngest boss, who shared his own coaching perspectives. Such cross-sport exchanges are a regular feature under Borthwick, who previously collaborated with cricket figures like Brendon McCullum.
England are seeking to end a losing streak against the All Blacks, having fallen narrowly in all three of last year’s Tests — including a tight 24–22 defeat at Twickenham. With new inspiration from Raducanu and Hurzeler, Borthwick’s men hope this weekend marks a turnin
g point.
