England need to learn how to adapt after two defeats that have raised interest in the Six Nations, and further admiration of Ireland, in All Black country
Maybe the Eddie Jones factor plays a part – the old mate from across the Tasman Sea – but whenever England lose it creates a ripple in New Zealand. I’ve been back there for the past 10 days and there is no doubt the country’s media has jumped on it. The Six Nations is not exactly headline news over there but what strikes New Zealanders most is just how competitive it is. With Scotland a lot stronger now, Wales playing a new brand of rugby, Ireland very comfortable in what they are doing and England having a wobble, it shows the unpredictability of the competition and that adds to the product.
Related: Dylan Hartley set to return for England against Ireland in Six Nations finale
A more significant problem for England is adapting to how the referee polices the breakdown early in matches
Related: Ireland reach new heights and make New Zealand game an enticing prospect | Robert Kitson
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