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Mako Vunipola had floated idea that England stars could give percentage away
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Samoa’s union has been declared bankrupt, which is refuted by World Rugby
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RFU are to pay £75,000 to Pacific Islanders after game as goodwill gesture
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Spokesperson for players said they did not feel it was their place to intervene
England’s players have decided against donating part of their £22,000 match fee to Samoa players.
Mako Vunipola, the Saracens prop who comes from a Tongan family, had proposed donating at least £1,000 per player earlier this month and it was understood at the time that there was near universal agreement within the squad to do so.
Samoa’s players only receive a £650 match fee in contrast and a widespread appeal has been launched – #HELPSAMOA – to help offset financial problems within the Samoan union.
“As players we feel it isn’t our place to get involved in what appears to be a complex issue between the Samoan union and World Rugby,” said a spokesman for the England players.
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“We are aware that the RFU has pledged to make a goodwill gesture to them on behalf of everyone involved with England Rugby and we support that decision.
“As players we look forward to playing Samoa this weekend as I am sure they are too. We won’t be commenting on this matter any further.”