England give World Cup thumbs-up

ANY lingering doubt over England’s participation in this year’s Rugby World Cup was removed yesterday when the players agreed to formally sign up for the tournament.

The England squad, led by Martin Johnson, had been involved in protracted negotiations with Rugby World Cup officials over issues such as image rights, but finally gave their approval to a deal brokered by the Players’ Association.

Players’ Association chief executive Damian Hopley said: “We’re delighted the squad have taken our advice. Money was never an issue.”