Three Players Set To Be Stripped Of Their England Central Contracts

But with squad evolution, overseas moves and fierce competition for places, several current deal holders could be set to lose their contracts before the next cycle in September.

Tom Willis' fate appears sealed.

The Saracens No.8 agreed a move to Bordeaux, a decision that will make him ineligible for England selection under the RFU's overseas player policy. Willis was immediately left out of England's training squad after confirming the move, with reports at the time suggesting Borthwick would no longer consider him for selection.

The 26-year-old had established himself as England's first-choice No.8 and was even awarded an enhanced contract. However, once he begins playing in France, that deal becomes effectively redundant.

Just 18 months ago, Ollie Lawrence looked untouchable in England's midfield.

Now his place looks far less secure.

Lawrence has been omitted from multiple recent England squads, while Borthwick has publicly backed the selection of South Africa-born centre Benhard Janse van Rensburg. The Bristol Bears midfielder was selected ahead of Lawrence despite criticism and has already been handed an England XV debut opportunity.

With Max Ojomoh also pushing for opportunities and Janse van Rensburg capable of covering several midfield roles, Lawrence faces a huge battle to regain his status as one of England's first-choice centres.

Unlike some of the other players under threat, Ben Curry's absence from England squads has not been a major talking point because he has barely played rugby this season.

The Sale Sharks flanker has been plagued by injury problems, managing just four appearances during the campaign after undergoing hamstring surgery and suffering further setbacks. His lack of game time has made it virtually impossible for him to push his case with Steve Borthwick.

However, England's enhanced EPS contracts are designed to reward players who are central to the national team's plans. With Curry unavailable for much of the season and fierce competition in the back row from the likes of Tom Curry, Ben Earl, Henry Pollock, Chandler Cunningham-South, Sam Underhill and Greg Fisilau, his position looks increasingly vulnerable.

While there is no suggestion England have moved on from the 27-year-old entirely, his prolonged absence means he is no longer among the squad's most influential figures.

As the RFU looks to manage its spending and Borthwick shapes his plans towards the 2027 Rugby World Cup, Curry is among the players who could find themselves losing their enhanced central contract status.

Since rugby turned professional in 1995, England have had a host of captains lead the team through World Cups, Grand Slams, Lions tours and some of the biggest moments in the sport's history.

From World Cup-winning legends to short-term stand-ins, how many England captains of the professional era can you name?

You have five minutes to name them all. Good luck!?