Head coach Steve Borthwick has excluded Ollie Lawrence and Elliot Daly from England’s 25-man central contract list as he continues to refine his squad in preparation for the Rugby World Cup in Australia next year. Despite their participation during the Six Nations, neither Lawrence nor Daly appeared in England’s three summer Tests. This decision marks a notable shift in Borthwick’s strategy, especially concerning Lawrence, who had previously impressed during England’s win against New Zealand.
New faces in the squad include Northampton forward Alex Coles and Sale prop Asher Opoku-Fordjour, alongside Seb Atkinson, Guy Pepper, and Jack van Poortvliet, who all secured contracts after missing out the previous year. Daly’s exclusion is particularly surprising given his versatility and past commendations from Borthwick. Nonetheless, Daly remains a potential candidate for the broader World Cup squad, which will comprise 33 players.
The omission of Lawrence and Daly adds to the competitiveness within England’s midfield and back-three options. Atkinson, now a leading candidate for the inside-centre position, and Opoku-Fordjour, noted for his capability to play on both sides of the scrum, have strengthened their standings in Borthwick’s plans.
Additionally, Courtney Lawes and South African-born centre Benhard van Rensburg were also not selected. Lawes, after his return to England, remains eligible for future selection, while van Rensburg made his international debut during the summer. England’s central contracts, valued at around £150,000 annually, allow for greater management of players’ preparation, with Borthwick’s choices offering insight into those closest to his World Cup blueprint.