Players could be rested for matches on welfare grounds
Lions squad mandated 10 weeks off after summer tour
Steve Borthwick has been urged by Prem Rugby head coaches to consider resting British & Irish Lions players during England’s autumn internationals campaign on welfare grounds.
Players who appeared on the Lions tour in Australia over the summer were mandated 10 weeks off, ensuring they will miss the first two rounds of the new season and be available for three before England begin their November campaign against the Wallabies.
Tom Curry has undergone pre-planned wrist surgery, after starring for the Lions with a torn ligament, and is unlikely to feature for Sale before England in the autumn, while players such as Tommy Freeman (who played 34 times), Maro Itoje and Ben Earl (both 33) – thus exceeding the 30-match limit last season – are expected to be managed through the campaign.
