There appear to be two Englands out there, both coached by the same man. The first lot are unbeaten in 17 Tests, still have improvement in them and possess the most influential bench in world rugby. The second mob are in average form, have injury problems and are starting to be seen as potentially vulnerable. Increasingly, it feels like Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde are playing in front of the West Stand debenture seats.
If it seems slightly perverse to imagine such a successful side wrestling with a split personality, consider the Six Nations to date. France looked the more impressive team for lengthy periods on the first weekend, only for Ben Te’o to come on and punish the visitors’ waning fitness. Wales would have won in Cardiff but for Elliot Daly’s face-saving late try. Italy trailed 17-15 with 10 minutes left before they, too, ran out of gas. Despite the continuing uncertainty over Owen Farrell’s left knee, England are collectively fit but dominant 80-minute performances have been absent lately.
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