New England Defence Coach Joe El-Abd Reveals Insights into Steve Borthwick Friendship and Rugby Philosophy
Joe El-Abd, the defence coach for New England, shared his journey alongside a close friend, Steve Borthwick, shedding light on their strong friendship and rugby principles. El-Abd’s coaching career has seen him thrive in France, a path that diverged from his playing days as a flanker in Brighton. His move to Toulon in 2009 was meant to be temporary, but 15 years, three clubs, and a family later, El-Abd found himself deeply rooted in French rugby culture.
When Borthwick faced the unexpected departure of defence coach Felix Jones, he reached out to El-Abd for support. Despite juggling responsibilities at Oyonnax as a rugby director, El-Abd accepted the challenge. He will split his time between England duties and his role at Oyonnax until the end of the season, showcasing his commitment to both teams and the sport.
Reflecting on the opportunity to coach England, El-Abd expressed his enthusiasm and reverence for representing his country in a coaching capacity. His friendship with Borthwick, spanning over 26 years, has been a key factor in their collaborative coaching approach. Their shared experiences as players and mentors have cultivated a strong foundation built on honesty, growth, and mutual respect.
El-Abd’s entrance into the England coaching setup coincides with a period of defensive evolution for the team. The defensive strategies implemented under Jones have shown promise, with a focus on high-pressure tactics. El-Abd aims to build on existing strengths while seeking areas of improvement, particularly emphasising the importance of line speed and aggression in defensive plays.
As England continues to refine its defensive style, El-Abd is eager to contribute to the team’s growth and success. His passion for the game and dedication to his coaching role align with Borthwick’s vision for evolving England’s rugby philosophy. The collaboration between El-Abd and Borthwick represents a union of expertise, friendship, and a shared commitment to excellence in rugby coaching.