From near despair to the pinnacle of glory: George Ford's remarkable comeback story with England's rugby team is a testament to resilience and skill.
Just a year ago, George Ford faced the crushing disappointment of a missed drop goal, leaving England on the brink of defeat. Fast forward to the present, and he's basking in the glory of a famous victory over the All Blacks, collecting accolades and proving his enduring value. What a turnaround!
Consider how England has evolved, banishing the woes of 2024 and the series of close calls. With 10 consecutive wins, Steve Borthwick's team has emerged as a major force in international rugby, and Ford is at the heart of it.
For Ford, this win against New Zealand on home soil was a rare and cherished moment, especially considering his 11-and-a-half-year career and 104 caps. It's a journey marked by highs and lows, including the costly missed kick against the All Blacks last November. But here's where it gets interesting...
Initially, Ford seemed to be on the fringes of the team. He was an unused replacement shortly after that near miss, and by the start of the Six Nations, he was entirely excluded from the matchday squad as younger players were given their chance. The fact that three English fly-halves were in Australia with the British and Irish Lions in the summer, and Ford wasn't one of them, spoke volumes.
But after leading England impressively on their concurrent trip to Argentina, Ford has rarely felt so central to the national team. Steve Borthwick's high praise for Ford reflects his outstanding leadership and character. Borthwick highlighted Ford's consistent performance whenever he wears the England shirt.
This November showcased Ford at his best. Against Australia, he masterfully adjusted the strategy, utilizing the kicking game to gain an advantage. He was even better against New Zealand, controlling the tempo and territory with precision. There were moments of brilliance, like his second-half 50:22, where he created space for his teammates. Ford's double drop into the pocket and subsequent kicks were crucial in keeping England in the game.
Ford's ability to stay calm under pressure was evident in the World Cup, where his drop goals were critical. Borthwick trusts Ford's decision-making, which is a testament to his rugby intelligence.
Anyone who's worked with Ford will tell you about his sharp rugby brain and selflessness. It's a testament to his character that he has remained a team player even when he wasn't always the first choice.
Ford has had to adapt to different roles throughout his career, often playing second fiddle to Owen Farrell. Even after a significant win in Argentina, Farrell took back the No. 10 shirt before the knockout rounds. Eddie Jones even admitted he should have dropped Ford for the 2019 World Cup final.
But here's where it gets controversial...
It's hard to imagine Borthwick easily sidelining Ford now. While it's been assumed that Fin Smith will take over in two years, at 32, Ford is playing some of the best rugby of his career. England's playmaker of the past and present might just be their fly-half of the future, too.
What do you think about Ford's journey? Do you agree that he's playing some of his best rugby? Share your thoughts in the comments!
