England’s head rugby coach Steve Borthwick has excluded Ollie Lawrence and Elliot Daly from the 25-man central contract list as he continues to refine his squad for the upcoming Rugby World Cup in Australia. Despite having participated in the Six Nations, both players did not feature in England’s recent three summer Tests. This decision marks a notable shift in Borthwick’s strategy, especially concerning Lawrence, who had previously excelled in a match against New Zealand.
In their place, new faces such as Northampton forward Alex Coles and Sale prop Asher Opoku-Fordjour have been brought into the fold. Additionally, Seb Atkinson, Guy Pepper, and Jack van Poortvliet have secured contracts after not being selected the previous year. The omission of Daly, known for his adaptability and previously commended by Borthwick, is significant. However, he remains a contender for the broader World Cup squad, which will comprise 33 players.
This move heightens the competition within England’s midfield and back-three positions. Atkinson is emerging as a top candidate for the inside-centre role, while Opoku-Fordjour’s proficiency in playing on both sides of the scrum enhances his appeal. Meanwhile, Courtney Lawes and Benhard van Rensburg, a centre originally from South Africa, have also been left out. Lawes is still available for national team selection after his return to England, and van Rensburg made his international debut in the summer.
England’s central contracts offer increased oversight of player preparations and are valued at around £150,000 annually. Borthwick’s recent selections provide an early glimpse into the players he is considering for his World Cup plans.