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How will this agreement impact player management and club finances?
The new partnership grants England head coach Steve Borthwick greater control over player management, allowing him to select up to 25 players into an enhanced Elite Player Squad (EPS). This shift is expected to streamline player development and performance. Financially, the partnership is designed to provide clubs with much-needed support, addressing ongoing financial challenges and ensuring a more sustainable future for English rugby.
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What are the long-term goals of the Rugby Football Union?
The Rugby Football Union aims to reshape the future of English rugby through this partnership. Long-term goals include improving player development, enhancing the competitiveness of the national team, and fostering a collaborative environment between the RFU, Premiership Rugby, and the Rugby Players' Association. This strategic alignment is intended to create a unified vision for the sport's growth.
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What does this mean for women's rugby in England?
The partnership also emphasizes the importance of women's rugby, as highlighted by player Ellie Kildunne. The RFU is committed to raising awareness of gender disparities in the sport and ensuring that women's rugby receives the attention and resources it deserves. This dual focus on both men's and women's rugby reflects a comprehensive approach to the future of the game.
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How was the Professional Game Partnership established?
The Professional Game Partnership was established after 18 months of negotiations involving the RFU, Premiership Rugby, and the Rugby Players' Association. This extensive dialogue was necessary to address the financial challenges facing clubs and to create a framework that supports player development and enhances the overall quality of rugby in England.
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What are the expected outcomes of this partnership?
Expected outcomes of the Professional Game Partnership include improved performance of the England national team, better financial stability for clubs, and a more cohesive strategy for player management. By aligning the goals of the RFU and Premiership Rugby, the partnership aims to create a stronger foundation for the future of English rugby.