Rugby

“So much potential there” – Ronan O’Gara would rip up England’s backline

Ronan O’Gara sparked rumours of one day coaching England after admitting he would “love” the opportunity.

Rumours of England come at a time when incumbent Eddie Jones is under immense pressure and has confirmed he will depart after the 2023 Rugby World Cup. 

“Yeah it would be a great job I think actually, what a team,” said O’Gara.

“I think there’s so much potential there, serious rugby players, serious passion for the game in England. It’s a cracking job. You’d love to have a go off that.”

Speaking to BT Sport, O’Gara went into detail on his strategy built around ‘KBA’, standing for ‘Keep Ball Alive’. His time with the Crusaders was pivotal.

“It’s a mindset, something that interests me hugely. There’s a massive ruck focus in the northern hemisphere and then when you go to the Crusaders it’s ‘KBA’ – keep ball alive.” A

We made up this XV based on quotes from the former Ireland fly-half along with the style of rugby he currently deploys with La Rochelle.

RONAN O’GARA’S ENGLAND XV:

BACK-THREE:

  • 15. Freddie Steward
  • 14. Anthony Watson
  • 11. Henry Arundel
Freddie Steward of England goes over for a try during the Autumn Nations Match between England and Australia at Twickenham on 13 November 2021. Photo: Micah Crook/PPAUK

BACK-ROW:

  • 6. Tom Curry
  • 7. Lewis Ludlam
  • 8. Alfie Barbeary

O’Gara on Curry: “In the back-row, I think Curry – I saw him live against New Zealand in the World Cup semi-final and he blew me away. Obviously we came across him at club level this year and he was incredible.”

Tom Curry of England Rugby during the Six Nations Championship match between England and Italy at Twickenham Stadium, Twickenham, London on January 13 2021. – PHOTO: Micah Crook/PPAUK

CONTINUES ON PAGE TWO


The post “So much potential there” – Ronan O’Gara would rip up England’s backline appeared first on Ruck.

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