The RFU are understood to be completely unaware of any current Springboks having put pen to paper with the controversial R360 breakaway league.

RUCK understands that if the new global franchise tournament fails to gain World Rugby approval, any player signing up will be forced to sacrifice their Test careers – including hopes of appearing at the 2027 Rugby World Cup – to take part.

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England icons such as Maro Itoje, Fin Smith, George Ford and, most recently, Immanuel Feyi-Waboso have all been linked with the rebel competition. However, RUCK sources indicate that the RFU have no knowledge of any current England internationals committing to deals.

The project is being spearheaded by former England centre Mike Tindall, ex-Bath director of rugby Stuart Hooper and the lawyer responsible for both the IPL and LIV Golf. Reports suggest around 160 players have already signed pre-contracts – the majority of them having played Test rugby in the past year.

Under World Rugby regulations, players registered with their national unions would be barred from unsanctioned events.

Big money is on the table too – with salaries said to start at a staggering £700,000 per season.

Where Will They Play?

R360 will span the globe. Teams will be based in:

London

Tokyo

Dubai

Cape Town

Boston

Miami

Plus two more cities still under wraps.

Each squad is expected to boast 35 players, with room for a women’s competition to follow soon after, starting with four teams.

Contract Clashes Already

To play in the first R360 season, players must be out of contract by summer 2026. That rules out big names like Marcus Smith and Finn Russell, who are tied up until 2028. But don’t count them out just yet — sources say R360 has a war chest ready to buy players out if needed.

This could be the biggest shift in the sport since professionalism. Watch this space.

Updated 2027 Rugby World Cup draw, England get easy group

he tournament’s structure and timing now better reflect current global rankings, thanks to a late pool draw in December this year made possible by reforms in 2022.

Here’s a breakdown of the predicted groups and team bios for the RWC 2027:

🏆 Group A

South Africa 🇿🇦
The reigning world champions and four-time RWC winners, the Springboks bring a powerhouse blend of physicality, tactical brilliance, and iconic leadership.

Argentina 🇦🇷
Los Pumas continue to rise as a Tier 1 nation, combining flair and fearlessness. Semifinalists in 2007 and 2015, they’re known for big-game upsets.

Samoa 🇼🇸
With deep roots in rugby tradition, Samoa’s raw physicality and natural flair make them one of the most dangerous Tier 2 teams in the game.

Tonga 🇹🇴
The ‘Ikale Tahi’ bring bone-crunching tackles and island pride. With several stars playing abroad, Tonga is always capable of springing a surprise.

🌍 Group B

New Zealand 🇳🇿
The legendary All Blacks need no introduction—three-time world champions with a relentless pursuit of perfection and a legacy of innovation.

Scotland 🏴
A Six Nations stalwart, Scotland blends tactical kicking and dynamic playmakers, looking to go beyond the quarterfinals for the first time since 1991.

Japan 🇯🇵
The Brave Blossoms became global darlings in 2019 with a stunning quarterfinal run. Expect lightning-quick rucks and passionate homegrown talent.

Chile 🇨🇱
One of the emerging forces from South America, Chile made its first RWC appearance in 2023. Physical, proud, and improving fast.

CONTINUES ON PAGE TWO

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