In a notable shift in England’s rugby strategy, head coach Steve Borthwick has excluded Ollie Lawrence and Elliot Daly from the 25-man central contract list as preparations ramp up for the Rugby World Cup in Australia next year. This decision comes despite both players participating in the Six Nations, although neither appeared in the summer Test matches. The absence of Lawrence, who made a significant impact in England’s win over New Zealand, highlights a strategic change under Borthwick’s leadership.
New faces have been welcomed into the fold, with Northampton forward Alex Coles and Sale prop Asher Opoku-Fordjour among those receiving contracts. Joining them are Seb Atkinson, Guy Pepper, and Jack van Poortvliet, who were not part of the contracted group last year. This reshuffling suggests Borthwick is keen to introduce fresh talent and recalibrate the team dynamics as the World Cup approaches.
Elliot Daly’s exclusion stands out due to his adaptability on the field and previous commendations from Borthwick. Despite not being on the central contract list, Daly, at 33, could still find a place in the larger World Cup squad, which will feature 33 players. His versatility would have been an asset, but the competition for positions in England’s midfield and back-three remains fierce, with Atkinson now a strong contender for the inside-centre role.
Other seasoned players like Courtney Lawes and Benhard van Rensburg, the South African-born centre, have also been passed over for central contracts. Lawes, having returned to England, stays in the selection pool, while van Rensburg, who debuted internationally over the summer, will have to vie for a spot outside the contracted group. Opoku-Fordjour’s inclusion strengthens the squad’s scrum capabilities due to his flexibility in playing both sides.
England’s central contracts, valued at approximately £150,000 annually, offer enhanced control over player preparation. Borthwick’s current selections reveal a glimpse into the athletes he considers vital for England’s World Cup ambitions. This strategic alignment of talent underscores the evolving landscape of the national team as it gears up for the international challenge next year.
