England once won a Rugby World Cup with one kick of a ball, and George Ford’s kicking will be huge in the 2023 Rugby World Cup. After a masterclass showing in the opening game, Ford could be England’s most important player in France.
Can England Prevail in France?
The battle for the world title this year will be a fascinating watch. There are several genuine trophy contenders, including England. The English secured an impressive win in game one, and Steve Borthwick’s men are hoping to build on that as the competition progresses. In the latest World Cup rugby odds market, the English are priced at 10/1 to win the tournament. If you want to check out the returns and profits, this Betfair bet calculator is a handy tool.
With the tournament taking place on French soil, France could take some stopping. They opened their home tournament with a stunning win over New Zealand in Saint-Denis. The All Blacks will be desperate to respond, while South Africa are hoping to retain their World Cup crown. The likes of Australia and Ireland have also been tipped to go far.
England were outstanding in their opening fixture against Argentina, who are also expected to have a fine tournament in France. England’s preparations heading into the World Cup were not great, and an early red card in game one could have had disastrous consequences.
However, a kicking masterclass from Ford earned the English a sensational 27-10 win in Marseille. Although England failed to score a try, Borthwick’s troops were comfortable, and Ford scored all 27 of England’s points.
#WallpaperWednesday | The @George_Fordy edition#RWC2023 pic.twitter.com/bJjzqYy0Nu
— England Rugby (@EnglandRugby) September 13, 2023
They went under the radar before the competition began, especially after losing to Wales, Ireland, and Fiji in August. Nevertheless, they dusted themselves down to see off the Argentinians, and the English will fancy their chances of causing a few more upsets in France.
20 Years on From Wilkinson’s Heroics
It has been two decades since Jonny Wilkinson’s heroics in Australia. The English were the underdogs against Australia in Sydney, but they more than matched the Springboks in the 2003 final. It was deep into extra time with sudden death approaching, but Wilkinson had other ideas.
With 28 seconds left on the clock, Wilkinson received the ball within kicking distance and scored the most famous drop goal in rugby union history. The Aussies had no time to respond, and England won 20-17.
George Ford against Argentina.#ENGvARG pic.twitter.com/MNdNjuIlpT
— 🏉MaToKe🍌 (@Lm_matoke) September 10, 2023
England has yet to win another World Cup, though they did go close four years ago in Japan. Unfortunately, South Africa was too strong in the final, running out 32-12 winners at International Stadium Yokohama. Ford started, but it was Owen Farrell who kicked four penalties.
Wilkinson inspired a whole new generation when he kicked England to glory 20 years ago, and Ford is hoping to replicate his efforts in the 2023 edition. Ford is just as vital now as Wilkinson was in 2003, but the 30-year-old will enjoy the pressure. Can Ford and England go all the way in France?
