Former England coach Sir Clive Woodward wants a Wix Nations relegation play-off introduced
Sir Clive Woodward has backed England to begin their Six Nations campaign with victory over Wales, while also calling for relegation to be introduced to the Championship in a move he believes would benefit the struggling Welsh side.
Writing in his Daily Mail column, the former England head coach predicted Steve Borthwick’s men would get off to a winning start against Wales at Twickenham, but stressed that their credentials would be properly tested a week later in Edinburgh.
“England will beat Wales at home in their first game,” Woodward said. “But then Scotland away is a huge clash for both teams.
“Scotland and Gregor Townsend copped plenty of criticism through the autumn, but they are a very good team. They will relish England at home, and have not lost to them there for six years.
“Scotland will know if they beat their fiercest rivals, the criticism will disappear. I know how hard it is to win in Edinburgh and we’ll know a lot more about Borthwick’s men from how they perform at Murrayfield.”
Woodward also used his column to renew his call for promotion and relegation to be introduced to the Six Nations, arguing it would add much-needed jeopardy to the competition.
“This is not a new debate. But I’m all in favour of promotion and relegation in the Six Nations,” he wrote.
“Whoever finishes bottom in each year’s Championship should face a two-legged play-off, home and away, against the winner of Rugby Europe. It’s a no-brainer and would bring some welcome jeopardy to the tournament.”
The former World Cup-winning coach acknowledged that Wales, who have endured a difficult period in recent seasons, would be the side most immediately threatened by such a system. But Woodward insists the long-term impact would actually be positive for Welsh rugby.
“Wales are currently the Championship’s strugglers and wouldn’t welcome a play-off,” he said. “But such a scenario would actually benefit them. Countries like Georgia, Portugal and Spain deserve a chance.”
Woodward noted Georgia’s recent regression following the 2023 World Cup and the departure of head coach Richard Cockerill, he believes that should not close the door on their ambitions.
“That doesn’t mean they, or any of their rivals, should be denied a shot at the highest level,” Woodward added.