England head coach Steve Borthwick has named a gaggle of 17 gamers that can obtain English rugby’s first Enhanced Elite Participant Squad contracts.
Fly-halves George Ford, Marcus Smith and Fin Smith have been given one of many offers however there are not any tighthead props within the group.
Bathtub’s Sam Underhill is a shock omission having began all of England’s eight Check matches in 2024.
The contracts – the primary of their sort – permit Borthwick to have the ultimate say on all sports activities science and medical issues in relation to the gamers, handing the England boss unprecedented affect in comparison with his predecessors.
“I’m assured that these contracts, and our robust relationship with the Premiership golf equipment, will play a major function in England Rugby’s continued growth,” he stated.
Northampton’s Alex Mitchell is the one scrum-half within the 17, with Ellis Genge the one loosehead prop, whereas Sale flanker Tom Curry has been handed an Enhanced Contract regardless of his lengthy damage lay-off.
Immanuel Feyi-Waboso has capped off a breakthrough yr by being included within the group, whereas Henry Slade has additionally been given a contract regardless of not making the 2023 Rugby World Cup squad.
Flanker Chandler Cunningham-South began England’s three Check matches on their summer season tour, however has been unnoticed of the 17.