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Clive Woodward has urged the RFU to follow the Springboks’ example and allow those playing outside the country to be eligible for England selection.
Currently, only those who play in the English Premiership can be selected by England coach Steve Borthwick, a policy that rules out the likes of Jack Willis (Toulouse), Henry Arundell and Owen Farrell (both Racing 92).
“I would urge the RFU once more to abandon its ruling that bans players at overseas teams from playing for England,” Woodward wrote in his Daily Mail column. “It is archaic, devalues international rugby, and hurts Steve Borthwick’s chances of success.”
The 2003 World Cup-winning former England coach said the Springboks had got it right.
“South Africa have their players all over the globe and have won the last two World Cups.
“At the highest level, one player can make a difference. For example, if Jack Willis stays with Toulouse, as things stand, he won’t be eligible for England.
“Willis is the sort of player that can win England the next World Cup, but Borthwick can’t do so if he is hamstrung by selection.”
Photo: Dan Mullan/Getty Images
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Publish date : 2025-01-03 14:32:36
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