Steve Borthwick names five new players in England Rugby contracts

Steve Borthwick has announced five players receiving their first England central contracts for the upcoming 2026-27 season. Asher Opoku-Fordjour, Alex Coles, Guy Pepper, Jack van Poortvliet, and Seb Atkinson are the newcomers among the 25 players listed. Notable absentees include Ben Curry, Elliot Daly, Ollie Lawrence, and Tom Roebuck, all of whom have experienced changes in circumstances, primarily due to injuries or falling out of favour. The new contract system, initiated in 2024, aims to streamline player management and preparation ahead of the 2027 Rugby World Cup. England will host Australia, Japan, and New Zealand in November as part of their schedule.

• 1:30 PMYahoo Sports — Five players get first England deals in Borthwick shake-up
• 1:30 PMBBC Sport — Five players get first England deals in Borthwick shake-up