England to limit Six Nations squad to 28 players

England are set to limit their squad size to 28 members for the upcoming Six Nations tournament following the concerns due to pandemic coronavirus.

It is reported that England coach Eddie Jones will name a 32-member squad to assemble for training on Monday with the size expected to be trimmed to 23 to 25 with the remaining players set to be released for club duties.

A statement released by the Rugby Football Union read that an agreement has been reached with the RPA and Premiership Rugby that 28-member squad will be retained in the bio-bubble during the entire match weeks to ensure there is no Covid-19 outbreak.

“In recognition of the challenges presented by Covid-19, Premiership Rugby, the RPA and the RFU have agreed that England will retain a 28-player squad,” an RFU statement read.

“This will reduce movement in and out of the England team environment.”

Earlier, French Rugby Federation president Bernard Laporte expressed confidence of the tournament happening without disruption and has called for strong protocols implemented including testing players 72 hours before the game.

England will kick-start their Six Nations 2021 campaign with a clash against Scotland on 6th February at Twickenham Stadium.