In the heart of Spain's sunny Girona, England's rugby union squad is fine-tuning their Six Nations campaign, and BBC's Rugby Union Weekly podcast has captured the electric atmosphere. As the 2026 tournament kicks off with a high-stakes opener against Wales, host Chris Jones ventured into the training camp to uncover the stories shaping Steve Borthwick's team. This episode, available now on BBC Sounds, offers a raw, unfiltered look at the players' preparations, personal triumphs, and unbreakable team spirit.
England's Centres: Golf, Energy, and On-Field Magic
At the forefront of the discussions are Northampton Saints duo Tommy Freeman and Fraser Dingwall, two of England's key centres who have been pivotal in recent selections. Jones sat down with them amid the balmy Girona backdrop, where the squad is honing their attacking lines and defensive structures. The pair opened up about their off-field bonding over golf—a surprising revelation that highlights how these modern athletes balance intense training with light-hearted downtime.
But it's not all leisure. The centres delved into the whirlwind energy of young flanker Henry Pollock, whose boundless enthusiasm has injected fresh dynamism into the camp. 'He's like a puppy—full of beans,' Freeman quipped, emphasizing how Pollock's vibe keeps the squad motivated. On the pitch, Freeman and Dingwall's chemistry is no accident. They discussed their seamless understanding, forged through club rugby at Northampton, and how it translates to international level. 'We click because we think alike,' Dingwall explained, pointing to their shared vision in midfield battles that could prove decisive against Wales' gritty defense.
Navigating Camp Dynamics and Youth Integration
The episode also touched on the broader squad dynamics. With Borthwick's team announcement fresh, the focus was on unity. Freeman and Dingwall shared how the group adapts to rotating lineups, ensuring no one feels sidelined. This adaptability is crucial as England aims to build on their mixed fortunes from previous campaigns, blending experience with emerging talent.
Ellis Genge: Leadership, Loss, and the Centurion Dream
Ellis Genge, the Bristol Bears prop and England vice-captain, stole the spotlight with his candid reflections. Approaching his 76th cap, Genge is inching toward the elite 'centurion club'—a milestone reserved for players with 100 Test appearances. 'It's starting to play on my mind,' he admitted, but quickly pivoted to team priorities. Genge's stories of bonding with fly-half Fin Smith over UFC fights painted a picture of a squad that thrives on camaraderie, far from the stereotypes of stoic rugby players.
One of the episode's most poignant moments came when Genge addressed the squad's support for captain Maro Itoje. With Itoje named on the bench for the Wales game following the heartbreaking loss of his mother, the team has rallied around him in touching fashion. 'We've all been there for him—it's what family does,' Genge said, underscoring the emotional depth that underpins England's resilience. Itoje's leadership, even from the replacements, remains a cornerstone, with Genge praising his ability to inspire without starting.
Spotlight on Emerging Props and Tactical Approaches
Genge didn't hold back on his admiration for the young props breaking into the setup. Players like the fresh-faced forwards have impressed with their work ethic and technical prowess, signaling a bright future for England's front row. 'These lads are sponges—they soak it all up,' Genge noted, reflecting on how he's mentoring the next generation while maintaining his own edge.
Tactically, the podcast dissected England's mindset heading into the Cardiff showdown. Wales, coming off a challenging year, are wounded but dangerous, known for their passionate home support and tactical nous under Warren Gatland. Genge outlined a no-nonsense approach: 'We respect them, but we're here to impose our game.' Borthwick's strategy emphasizes a powerful set-piece and expansive attack, with the Girona camp focusing on high-tempo drills to counter Wales' breakdown intensity.
BBC's Rugby Union Weekly: A Must for Fans
This 26-minute episode, aired on Radio 5 Live and available for over a year on BBC Sounds, exemplifies why BBC's rugby coverage remains the gold standard. From exclusive access to player insights, it bridges the gap between fans and the professionals. As the Six Nations unfolds—running from February to March 2026—expect more deep dives into rivalries, upsets, and triumphs.
England's campaign starts with pressure: a win in Wales would set a positive tone, potentially silencing critics after last year's inconsistencies. Players like Freeman, Dingwall, and Genge embody the blend of youth and grit that Borthwick craves. Their stories from Girona remind us that behind the scrums and tries lies a human element—friendships forged in sweat, losses shared in solidarity.
For those tuning in, the podcast also teases upcoming episodes, promising coverage of other nations and key matches. Whether you're a die-hard follower or a casual viewer, BBC Rugby Union Weekly delivers the analysis that elevates your understanding of the sport.
In a landscape dominated by digital highlights, BBC's commitment to narrative-driven content shines. As England gears up, one thing's clear: this squad is united, inspired, and ready to roar. Tune in to BBC Sounds today and join the conversation shaping rugby union's biggest stage.
