RFU to launch England Counties XV
September 21, 2001

The RFU has announced that a new national representative side will be launched by the end of the current season.

The England Counties XV was formally approved today at the RFU Management Board meeting. The squad will be made up of players from outside the Premiership who have played or are eligible to play in the Tetley's County Championship.

Francis Baron the RFU Chief Executive said today, "The England Counties XV will provide amateur and semi-professional players from level 2 and below with the opportunity of playing international rugby. The initiative will help raise the profile of the County Championship and provide the players who take part in it with a further incentive to develop their County careers. A 'brand' name will be given to the team before it plays its first fixtures at the end of this season, with a more intensive programme being discussed for 2002/03.

"A management team comprising of a Manager, Assistant Manager, Coach, Assistant Coach, Doctor and Physio will be appointed at the earliest opportunity. The team will be selected following consultation with the Head of Coach Development."

Terry Burwell the RFU's Community and Operations Director said, "Once the management team is in place it will appoint a Selection Committee with one representative from each region to assist in the selection process. The team will provide a higher profile for the County and Community game and the players taking part will benefit from playing against international opposition.

Potential opponents are being discussed and we aim to make further announcements relating to fixtures and management appointments in the near future."

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