England players agree to take 25 per cent for next 12 months

The Rugby Football Union and the Rugby Players' Association have agreed a 25 per cent cut in wages of England Men's players for the next 12 months following the financial loss created by the pandemic coronavirus.

Under the new agreement, the new provisions to protect player welfare in a packed schedule has been included. The players will have a week rest following the 2020 Six Nations campaign that ends with a clash against Italy on 31st October following which they will involve in a four-week Autumn Nations Cup.

Following the end of the series, the players will have two additional week rest with the clubs while New Year England camp has been cancelled.

"I would like to thank the players and the RPA for their strong co-operation and collaboration which has enabled us to reach this new agreement," said RFU chief executive Bill Sweeney.

"This is a special squad of players and their appreciation and understanding of the difficulties being faced across the English game has led to this outcome.

"We are committed to ensuring the RFU runs a sustainable operation to safeguard the future of the game in England and are grateful to the England international playing group for their willingness to accept a reduction in fees to support this."

England and Saracens hooker Jamie George said it was vital for the boards to back the board after what has been a tough season following the outbreak of Covid-19.

“The playing group wanted to address some concerns around welfare and rest for the EPS (elite player squad) and we are encouraged by the progress made by all stakeholders.

“We fully understand the pressures around the next 12 months both on and off the pitch, so it was vital for us to agree these provisions going forward.”