England Secures Greater Influence Over Top Players in £264m Agreement.

Rugby General

England Secures Greater Influence Over Top Players in £264m Agreement.

England head coach Steve Borthwick has gained greater control over his top players thanks to a groundbreaking new agreement in men's rugby.

Under an eight-year deal, up to 25 England players will receive "enhanced contracts," giving head coach Steve Borthwick final authority over all sports science and medical decisions. 

The Rugby Football Union (RFU) will pay Premiership clubs £33 million annually as part of the Professional Game Partnership, which aims to build world-class English teams and strong professional leagues.

RFU chief executive Bill Sweeney called the deal a game-changer for rugby, saying it will reshape the sport and reset the professional game. 

Each elite England player will also receive a tailored program to ensure they peak for major international matches.