Former England head coach Sir Clive Woodward has rejected claims that his 2003 side cheated during their Rugby World Cup success.
In a document, uncovered by a documentary on talkSPORT , Richards said: “The use of fake blood, cutting players, re-opening wounds, feigning injury in the front row, jabbing players with anaesthetic all occur regularly throughout the game.”
Richards’ observation noted: “Rugby World Cup 2003. England used faked blood to manage replacements.”
Woodward, writing in The Times, has refuted the claims that his 2003 heroes were involved in a similar practice.
“We won every match in Australia. Why would we want to cheat? This is simply not true.
“I am not sure why Dean raised this. I have never been involved in anything like this. It is ridiculous.”
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WOODWARD’S ENGLAND XV FOR THE AUTUMN NATIONS SERIES:
BACK-THREE:
15. Freddie Steward (Leicester Tigers) – “Everybody at Leicester has been raving about Steward for a while and I would like to think England are as excited at his exceptional attacking potential as well as his towering presence under the high ball, for which he is best known.”
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14. Louis Lynagh (Harlequins) – “He is a skilful player with pace and enjoyed a storming end of the season with Quins. He is a hot commodity with Australia and Italy also having a claim but I’m glad England have registered their interest after capping him at age group level and playing a big role in his development.”
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11. Adam Radwan (Newcastle Falcons) -“I love his sheer pace and energy. Like Marcus Smith, Radwan must start in the upcoming autumn as he is clearly something special.”
CENTRE:
13. Henry Slade (Exeter Chiefs)
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12. Manu Tuilagi (Sale Sharks)
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