06 January 2023 , 15:32
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Nick Evans, the former All Black and mentor to Marcus Smith, has been hired by England to sharpen their attack.
New boss Steve Borthwick has moved quickly to build a coaching team, recruiting first Kevin Sinfield on defence and now Evans. The 42-year old Kiwi joins only for the Six Nations - and the Rugby Football Union won’t say whether the incumbent Martin Gleeson has left his role.
But England fans will be excited by the appointment of a man who has turned Quins, the 2021 Premiership champions, into one of rugby’s most entertaining teams.
More than anyone he has been responsible for bringing out the best in Smith, England’s first-choice fly-half - at least when Eddie Jones was in charge.
Borthwick said: “Nick brings with him a wealth of different experiences as a player and coach, which will be incredibly valuable to the growth of our team.
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“I know that Nick understands the pride and responsibility that comes with representing your country. We aim to build an England team that our nation can be proud of.”
Steve Borthwick and Kevin Sinfield helped Leicester Tigers win Premiership title last season (Getty Images)Quins agreed to the short-term arrangement as England’s Six Nations bye weeks fall on weekends in which they play, enabling Evans to do both jobs.
“It’s a great example of club and country working together,” Borthwick added. “I know our supporters will be very excited by what Nick can bring to our side.”
Evans played 16 times for New Zealand, mainly at fly-half. But for No.10 legend Dan Carter he would have played many more.