More pro contracts for England’s Women

ENGLAND’S 15-a-side women players will receive professional contracts for the first time as part of England Rugby’s on-going commitment to the professionalisation of women’s rugby.

There will be 48 player contracts for the 2016-17 season as the squad build towards the Women’s Rugby World Cup next year.

Following the Olympic Games in Rio, 16 players will be awarded full-time contracts with a focus on the 15-a-side game. An additional 16 players will be handed part-time, threeday-a-week contracts with a Sevens focus.

A further 16 contracts will be awarded on a short-term basis, allowing players to come into residential camps ahead of major tournaments, including the Six Nations and the Women’s Rugby World Cup, to ensure the squad is well prepared.

RFU chief executive Ian Ritchie said: “The RFU is committed to supporting the growth of women’s rugby. We are immensely proud of England Women’s achievements.”