RFU, Premiership Rugby Sign £264 Million Milestone Deal

England rugby head coach Steve Borthwick has been granted extensive control over the national team's elite players under a new eight-year Professional Game Partnership (PGP) agreement between the Rugby Football Union (RFU) and Premiership Rugby. The deal, considered a significant milestone, involves the RFU paying Premiership clubs £33 million annually and allows Borthwick to have the final say on sports science and medical matters for up to 25 players, ensuring they are fit for international fixtures. While the move aims to create 'world-leading English teams,' it has raised concerns among club directors about losing control over their players. Exeter boss Rob Baxter and others have voiced apprehensions, though some, like Saracens' Mark McCall, see potential benefits if collaboration is maintained. The arrangement moves England closer to the Irish model of central governance but faces challenges in finalizing contracts and player representation.