Six Nations: RFU dismiss talk of player bans

The Rugby Football Union have hit back at claims that England players could face life bans from international competition.

An RFU 'official' is quoted in the Daily Mail claiming that players would not appear for England unless they walk away from contracts signed this week between themselves and their clubs.

But RFU management board chairman Brian Baister insisted that the comments bore no relation to Twickenham's official position.

The Premiership clubs intend releasing players for remaining England matches this season and the Lions tour of Australia, honouring existing contracts.

Premier Rugby's blueprint for the future of English professional rugby, which contains provision for England players to be released, will be discussed by the RFU management board at its meeting next Thursday.

"I have noted today's article in the Daily Mail, which carries the headline 'Back off or you're banned, says RFU'. The editorial goes on to quote an RFU 'official'," said Baister.

"Although we are not aware of the identity of the individual concerned, the RFU can state that the comments bare no relation to the RFU's official position regarding the players or the Premier Rugby proposals, and consequently we categorically refute them.

"We do not wish to make any further comment until after our management board meeting on March 29.

"Therefore, any media speculation from unidentified sources should be regarded as having no relation to our official position, which is one of wishing to give proper consideration to the Premier Rugby proposals," Baister added.

"The RFU is anxious to maintain the significant progress of recent years achieved by the game in England, both on and off the field of play.

"This progress can only be sustained through a meaningful partnership between RFU and our Premier clubs, and whereas there are current differences between us, we still believe that an agreement is both achievable and necessary."

Howard Thomas, acting chief executive of Premier Rugby, said assurances had been received from Twickenham this morning.

"As far as we are aware, current official RFU policy is that they will consider our proposal in full next week," Thomas said.

"As far as we are aware, there is no threat of a ban from the International Rugby Board.

"We have made it quite clear that we will release our players for the Six Nations and Lions. What the professional clubs and players want is a lasting and stable solution for management of the professional game, and a strong and successful England team.

"Banning players, or threatening to ban players, is not a solution to the game's problems."