England head coach Steve Borthwick faces renewed scrutiny, with RUCK naming a surprise favourite to replace him.

The 47-year-old endured a disastrous Six Nations, winning just one of five matches.

Despite the RFU backing him through the 2027 Rugby World Cup, questions remain over his long-term future.

RUCK has priced up 15 potential successors, including former England bosses, World Cup finalists and several surprise contenders.

Michael Cheika emerges as surprise favourite

Former Australia boss Michael Cheika tops RUCK's list at 3/1.

The 59-year-old guided the Wallabies to the 2015 World Cup final and subsequently coached Argentina and Leicester Tigers.

His international pedigree and experience of the PREM make him an intriguing candidate.

Ronan O'Gara follows at 4/1, with Northampton Saints boss Phil Dowson third at 5/1.

Former All Blacks coach Scott Robertson is another contender, while Shaun Edwards and Johann van Graan also feature prominently.

Former England bosses make the list

Stuart Lancaster could make a remarkable return to Twickenham, more than a decade after leaving following England's disastrous 2015 World Cup.

Sir Clive Woodward is another name on the list, although the 2003 World Cup winner is a huge outsider at 250/1.

Eddie Jones also features, despite his controversial departure in 2022.

Meanwhile, Ireland boss Andy Farrell has dropped to 66/1 in RUCK's assessment following his contract extension until 2031.

RFU backs Steve Borthwick

Despite the speculation, RFU chief executive Bill Sweeney recently reiterated his support for Borthwick.

"We're committed to Steve," he said.

"We've extended his contract until the middle of 2028. We believe in what he's doing."

However, with England's World Cup preparations under scrutiny, the debate over his eventual successor continues.

RUCK's odds: Next England head coach

1. Michael Cheika – 3/1
2. Ronan O'Gara – 4/1
3. Phil Dowson – 5/1
4. Scott Robertson – 6/1
5. Shaun Edwards – 8/1
6. Johann van Graan – 10/1
7. Rob Baxter – 12/1
8. Stuart Lancaster – 16/1
9. John Mitchell – 20/1
10. Jamie Joseph – 25/1
11. Geoff Parling – 33/1
12. Steve Diamond – 40/1
13. Andy Farrell – 66/1
14. Eddie Jones – 100/1
15. Sir Clive Woodward – 250/1

These are RUCK's own illustrative editorial odds, not bookmaker prices. There is no confirmed vacancy.

🌹 PICK YOUR ENGLAND XV!

Steve Borthwick has some big decisions to make. Now it's your turn.

Pick your starting XV, compare your selections with other England fans and see who makes the cut. 🏉