Rugby's 'escort' Crackdown Prompts Disgruntled Borthwick To Change Tack

Borthwick has reacted to the clampdown by changing the team's travel arrangements

England head coach Steve Borthwick has reacted to the Rugby Football Union's ban on players using escorts before matches by changing the team's travel arrangements.

Borthwick is reported to have been "disgruntled" by the RFU's decision, which was taken in response to a recent incident involving two England players, Anthony Watson and Joe Marler. The players were accused of inviting an escort to their hotel room during the team's training camp in Teddington.

In response, the RFU has banned all players from using escorts before matches, and has also banned them from drinking alcohol in the 24 hours before a game. Borthwick has reacted to the clampdown by changing the team's travel arrangements so that players will no longer be able to stay in hotels on the night before a match.

Borthwick 'disgruntled' by RFU's decision

Borthwick is said to be "disgruntled" by the RFU's decision, which he believes is too harsh and will damage the team's morale.

A source close to the coach said: "Steve is very unhappy with the decision. He believes it is too harsh and will damage the team's morale. He also believes that it is unfair to punish all players for the actions of a few.

"The players are adults and should be able to make their own decisions about how they spend their free time. The RFU's decision is a nanny state approach that will only serve to alienate the players."

RFU insists ban is necessary

The RFU insists that the ban is necessary to protect the reputation of the sport and to ensure that players are in the best possible condition for matches.

A spokesperson for the RFU said: "The RFU has a duty to protect the reputation of the sport and to ensure that players are in the best possible condition for matches.

"The decision to ban players from using escorts and drinking alcohol before matches was not taken lightly. However, we believe that it is necessary to send a clear message that such behavior is unacceptable.

"We understand that some players may be unhappy with the decision, but we hope that they will understand the reasons for it and will support us in our efforts to maintain the highest standards of conduct within the sport."