What's happened
England Rugby players, including captain Jamie George, have secured enhanced contracts worth £160,000 each as part of a new agreement with the Rugby Football Union. The deal addresses player welfare concerns and introduces protocols for managing workloads ahead of the autumn campaign against New Zealand.
Why it matters
What the papers say
According to The Guardian, the new contracts were brokered by Team England Rugby, which expressed concerns about player welfare and workload management. Jamie George emphasized the need for specific international rest protocols, stating, 'Reducing games from 35 to 30 demonstrates a commitment to player welfare.' The Independent highlighted that TER is the first player-led organization in rugby, aiming to enhance players' commercial potential and address welfare issues. Ellis Genge noted the opportunity for players to be at the forefront of these changes, indicating a shift in how player contracts are negotiated.
How we got here
Team England Rugby (TER) was established in January 2024 to negotiate on behalf of the England men's team after they split from the Rugby Players Association. The new Elite Player Squad (EPS) agreement aims to improve player welfare and commercial opportunities.
Common question
-
What Changes Are Being Made to Rugby Player Contracts?
Recent developments in rugby player contracts have sparked discussions about player welfare and workload management. With England Rugby players securing enhanced contracts, many are curious about the implications of these changes. What do these new agreements entail, and how will they affect the players and the upcoming rugby season? Here are some common questions and answers regarding the recent contract changes.
-
What are the new rugby contracts and how do they improve player welfare?
Recent changes in rugby contracts have sparked discussions about player welfare and workload management. With England Rugby players securing enhanced contracts, it's essential to understand the implications of these agreements and how they reflect a broader shift in sports management. Below are some common questions regarding these new contracts and their impact on players and teams.
More on these topics
-
Ellis Genge is an English rugby union player for Leicester Tigers in Premiership Rugby who made his international debut for England in 2016. His position is prop. Genge played 26 times for Bristol between 2013–2016. He is known for his aggressive ball c
-
Jamie George is an English rugby union player. He plays at hooker for Saracens in the English Premiership. He has also represented the England Rugby Team at under-16, under-18, and under-20 level, including the 2019 Rugby World Cup.
-
Anthony Watson may refer to:
-
Joseph William George Marler is an English professional rugby union player for Harlequins in the Gallagher Premiership playing primarily as a prop.