Pollock secures England Elite Player Agreement
England Announces Elite Player Squad for Autumn Series
After much anticipation, the England Men's Elite Player Squad (EPS) for the 2023 Autumn Series has been revealed. Head coach Steve Borthwick has awarded 25 enhanced contracts to a blend of established internationals and uncapped players for the 2025/26 season.
The squad boasts a mix of familiar faces and new talents, drawn from a wider 50-player EPS pool. Notable squad members across positions include Maro Itoje (captain), Ellis Genge, Tom Willis, Will Stuart, and Alex Mitchell (who remains the only scrumhalf in the EPS).
Among the new additions is Henry Pollock, a 20-year-old flanker from Northampton. Despite having only one international cap, Pollock's rapid rise has earned him a central contract worth about £150,000 a year. His inclusion provides fresh dynamism and depth in the back row, reaffirming England's commitment to nurturing young talent with high potential.
Pollock's contract also gives the national team greater say over his conditioning and medical care, enhancing preparation for England's international campaigns. Other new faces include Jamie George (Saracens), George Martin (Leicester Tigers), Ben Curry, George Furbank, Fin Smith, and Tommy Freeman.
Interestingly, former captain Owen Farrell is not included in the EPS but is eligible again after returning to Saracens from France. However, there are three flyhalves - Marcus Smith, Fin Smith, and George Ford - ensuring a strong attacking option in the backline.
The Elite Player Squad contracts, introduced last September as part of the RFU's new agreement with Premiership clubs, also provide Steve Borthwick with more control over players' sports science and medical matters and guarantee payment to the players involved.
This year's Autumn Series promises to be an exciting one, with England set to face Australia, Fiji, New Zealand, and Argentina. The squad's mix of experience and youthful energy should provide a formidable challenge for their opponents.
In a surprising development, Theo Dan is the only player to lose his central contract in the EPS. The squad's composition reflects England Rugby's long-term player development strategy and enriches the squad ahead of the upcoming series.
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