While Marcus Smith is making waves as the newest sensation in English rugby, he finds himself seated at the seventh spot among England's highest earners.
However, the landscape could soon change dramatically, with Steve Borthwick being granted the authority to allocate 25 central contracts, referred to as 'Enhanced EPS,' either in one go upon system launch or gradually, ensuring flexibility in player selection.
In the midst of discussions between the RFU and leading English clubs, a potential overhaul of the domestic game is on the horizon, forming a crucial component of the new Professional Game Partnership. The introduction of hybrid deals is a key facet of this comprehensive strategy.
The Enhanced EPS category is set to include up to 25 Test players and contenders, offering maximum support and fostering joint club-country management. Simultaneously, an additional 25 individuals will secure EPS (England Player Squad) deals.
These contracts, spanning one to three years, are anticipated to be valued at approximately £150,000 per annum, replacing the existing system of match fees, which currently stands at £23,000 for every Test appearance. As the rugby landscape undergoes potential transformation, players could soon see a significant boost in their earnings, aligning with the evolving dynamics of the sport.
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#10. Tom Curry (Sale Sharks) - £430,000 per season
#9. Courtney Lawes (Northampton Saints) - £450,000
#8. Henry Slade (Exeter Chiefs) - £450,000
Henry Slade of England kicks the conversion during the Autumn Nations Match between England and Tonga at Twickenham Stoop on 6 November 2021. Photo: Tom Sandberg/PPAUK
#7. Marcus Smith (Harlequins) - £460,000
Try Celebrations for Marcus Smith of England during the Autumn Nations Match between England and Tonga at Twickenham Stoop on 6 November 2021. Photo: Tom Sandberg/PPAUK
#6. Mako Vunipola (Saracens) - £500,000
Mako Vunipola of England during the Autumn Nations Cup match between England and Ireland at Twickenham Stadium, Twickenham, London on November 21 2020. - PHOTO: Phil Mingo/PPAUK
#5. Billy Vunipola (Saracens) - £520,000
#4. Ellis Genge (Bristol Bears) £520,000
Ellis Genge of England Rugby is tackled by Will Rowlands of Wales during the Six Nations Championship match between England and Wales at Twickenham Stadium, Twickenham, London on February 26th 2021. - PHOTO: Phil Mingo/PPAUK
#3. George Ford (Sale Sharks) - £550,000
Leicester Tigers player Ellis Genge during the Gallagher Premiership rugby game between Leicester Tigers and Harlequins at Mattioli Woods Welford Road on Dec 5th - PHOTO: Steve Bond/PPAUK
#2. Maro Itoje (Saracens) - £800,000
Maro Itoje of the Saracens during the Gallagher Premiership Rugby Match between Bath Rugby and Saracens at the Recreation Ground on 17 Oct. Photo: Steve Haag/PPAUK
#1. Owen Farrell (Saracens) - £820,000
