Warren Gatland is increasingly being seen as the scapegoat for the struggles of Welsh rugby. While it's clear that the Kiwi coach isn't maximizing the potential of the current Wales team, his troubled tenure may ultimately compel the nation to confront the deeper issues at play. Just over two years ago, a Wales team that bears a striking resemblance to the one set to take the field this Saturday achieved a remarkable feat by defeating the Springboks 13-12 in Bloemfontein. Under the guidance of then-coach Wayne Pivac and captain Dan Biggar, they became the first Welsh side to win in South Africa—a feat that had eluded many strong Welsh teams for six decades. They could have even clinched the series, but a narrow loss in the first Test at Loftus Versfeld, where they fell 32-29 due to a last-minute penalty from Damian Willemse, thwarted their chances. However, Wales has experienced a dramatic decline in a short span. This time last year, they were leading Argentina 10-6 at halftime in the World Cup quarter-finals, only to lose 29-17. Since then, they have not secured a victory in any Test match, apart from a non-competitive end-of-season clash against the Barbarians. This streak has now reached 11 consecutive defeats, and many anticipate it will extend to 12 following their upcoming match against South Africa. The odds heavily favor the Springboks, reflecting the pervasive sense of despair surrounding Welsh rugby at this moment. Gatland's position as head coach is increasingly scrutinized, and while he may not be solely responsible for the team's current woes, his leadership is under the microscope as Welsh rugby grapples with its challenges.

England may not be in a full-blown crisis just yet, but the upcoming Six Nations could prove pivotal for coach Steve Borthwick and his vision for the team. While a defeat to the world champions, South Africa, was anticipated, the pressure is mounting as the tournament approaches. It's important to maintain some perspective during challenging times. How many truly believed England would triumph over South Africa? A strong performance from a top team doesn't automatically mean that the losing side is devoid of potential. England's autumn campaign has certainly been eventful, but does it warrant labeling the situation as a crisis? In sports, a 'crisis' typically signifies a point where a team consistently underperforms to the extent that hope for improvement seems lost. While suffering a fifth consecutive defeat is disheartening for a nation that prides itself on being among the elite, the team’s tendency to falter in the latter stages of crucial matches is becoming a concerning trend. Analysts are increasingly associating England with a lackluster finish, which raises questions about their resilience and strategy. As the Six Nations approaches, the focus will be on whether Borthwick can turn the tide and restore confidence in the team.

**England Show Promise Despite Defeat to South Africa** In a thrilling encounter during the Autumn Nations Series, England put forth a performance that offered hope for the future, even as they faced a fifth consecutive defeat, losing 20-29 to South Africa. While the result was disappointing, the match revealed significant improvements in Steve Borthwick’s squad, addressing many of the doubts surrounding their capabilities and tactical approach. The game was a captivating spectacle, showcasing the intensity and excitement that rugby can deliver. England's Marcus Smith shone as the team's attacking orchestrator, demonstrating his skill and creativity throughout the match. However, it was South Africa's Cheslin Kolbe who ultimately stole the show, scoring two exceptional tries that secured victory for the reigning world champions. Despite the loss, England's performance provided a glimpse of a brighter future, leaving fans optimistic about the team's potential as they continue to develop under Borthwick's leadership.