In a move that reshapes the outlook of England’s rugby squad ahead of the 2024 Rugby World Cup in Australia, Ollie Lawrence and Elliot Daly have been excluded from the 25-man central contract list announced by head coach Steve Borthwick. This decision marks a pivotal shift, particularly since both Lawrence and Daly, despite their participation in the Six Nations, did not feature in England’s recent summer Tests. Lawrence’s absence is especially significant given his previous standout performance in England’s win against New Zealand.
The revised list introduces new faces such as Northampton forward Alex Coles and Sale prop Asher Opoku-Fordjour, along with Seb Atkinson, Guy Pepper, and Jack van Poortvliet, who have now secured contracts after being overlooked in the past. Daly’s exclusion is notable as well, considering his versatility and the commendation he has received from Borthwick. Nevertheless, Daly remains in the running for the broader World Cup squad, which will ultimately consist of 33 players.
With these changes, England’s options in the midfield and back-three positions face heightened competition. Atkinson emerges as a potential frontrunner for the inside-centre role, while Opoku-Fordjour’s dual capability to play both sides of the scrum adds depth to the team’s strategic options. The omission of experienced players like Courtney Lawes and Benhard van Rensburg, who debuted internationally this summer, further emphasizes the transformative approach Borthwick is taking.
Central contracts in England’s rugby scene are crucial as they offer increased management over players’ training and preparation, carrying a value of approximately £150,000 annually. Borthwick’s latest selections provide a glimpse into his evolving strategy and the athletes who are likely to form the core of England’s World Cup ambitions.