Steve Borthwick gains power over England players in new clubs deal
- The Rugby Football Union has entered an eight-year agreement with the Premiership, granting Steve Borthwick significant control over England players' club participation.
- Borthwick can select up to 25 players for enhanced contracts, with only two currently offered, amid ongoing negotiations with senior players.
- This deal aims to align the interests of the national team and clubs, ensuring player fitness and availability for both international and club matches.
Steve Borthwick has gained significant authority over the selection and management of England international players due to a new eight-year agreement between the Rugby Football Union (RFU) and the Premiership. This deal, which involves the RFU paying clubs £33 million annually, allows Borthwick to have the final say on sports science and medical matters for players under enhanced contracts. Currently, only Jamie George and Maro Itoje have received these contracts, but Borthwick can offer up to 25, pending negotiations with senior players. Concerns have been raised by club directors regarding the potential for conflicts between club and national team commitments, particularly regarding player fitness and availability. The RFU aims to ensure that players can participate in both international and club matches without compromising their health. The Professional Game Board (PGB) has been established to oversee these matters, including an independent chair and members from various rugby organizations. The RFU's chief executive, Bill Sweeney, emphasized that this agreement is a significant milestone for the future of rugby, aiming to reshape the professional game and support its growth. Despite financial challenges due to the pandemic, the RFU is in a stable position and is committed to investing in the sport's development. Overall, this new structure is designed to align the interests of the national team and clubs, ensuring that England's best players are in optimal condition for both international duties and club competitions, while also addressing the financial sustainability of the sport.