England’s impressive development under Steve Borthwick has taken a hit after the RFU confirmed the departure of the team’s head of strength and conditioning, Aled Walters.
Under Borthwick, England finished third at last year’s World Cup, impressed late in the 2024 Six Nations to claim third place again and pushed New Zealand in two southern hemisphere Tests last month. Walters has been a key part of the team’s progression.
He is recognised as one of the best in his field and was a key lieutenant for Borthwick as the pair worked together to win the Gallagher Premiership with Leicester Tigers in 2022.
Walters then followed Borthwick to England with his current assistants Kevin Sinfield and Richard Wigglesworth.
He had previously played a vital role in South Africa’s victory at the 2019 World Cup in Japan.
No reason has been given for Walters’ departure but he will leave the RFU this summer and will not take part in England’s autumn trials.
“We would like to thank Aled for his contribution to England,” Borthwick said.
‘Aled is an excellent coach and has worked hard to help develop the current squad over the past 12 months.
‘He leaves us with our best wishes for the future.’
Walters added: ‘I have made some great memories coaching England and I would like to thank Steve, the management team and the players for their friendship and support.
“I wish the team every success for the future.”
