England urged to drop George Ford from 25-man central contracts

George Ford’s place among England’s 25 centrally contracted players has been questioned, with the case made for England to leave the fly-half out of the group. The argument is that the squad already contains Fin Smith and Marcus Smith in the same position, making three centrally contracted fly-halves unnecessary.

Ford remains a highly regarded player, but his expected role is central to the criticism. He is viewed as likely to be a part-time option for England next season, rather than the team’s leading fly-half. That has prompted questions over whether his contract represents the best use of one of the 25 places.

Fin Smith has been backed to take the starting role, while Marcus Smith would provide cover from the bench. Under that arrangement, Ford would have limited opportunities to play a major part in England’s plans, despite his quality and experience.

The alternative named for one of the central contracts is Ollie Lawrence. The centre was considered the leading player in his position in the country before an injury interrupted his progress, and there is confidence that he can recover that level of form at Bath.

The debate therefore centres on squad balance rather than Ford’s ability. Keeping three fly-halves in the central-contract group would leave less room for a player such as Lawrence, whose return to his previous form could strengthen England in the centre. The view presented is that the contract should go to Lawrence while Smith takes over the main responsibility at fly-half.