As part of enhanced elite player squad (EPS) contracts introduced in 2024, England have the final say on the treatment, conditioning and match availability of their top stars.
In the past, that has led to conflict. England and Exeter’s medical staffs publicly disagreed over treatment Feyi-Waboso received for a previous shoulder injury, with one advocating rehabilitation and the other favouring immediate surgery.
Phil Dowson, Northampton’s director of rugby, has spoken of his “frustration” over Mitchell’s injury,, external which occurred on an alignment camp, three months after a similar injury playing against Ireland in the Six Nations.
However, Borthwick says the process is more collaborative than portrayed and that, even with a demanding summer schedule comprising matches against South Africa, Fiji and Argentina in view, he is keen on his England players being in the highest-profile club games.
“I want players to play in big games; games where there are trophies on the line, games where there are consequences, games where they’re going to perform with the incredible effect of pressure upon them,” he said.
“That’s the best preparation for Test match rugby. I’ve always believed that.”
Both Feyi-Waboso and Mitchell’s returns are timely for their teams.
Exeter wing Campbell Ridl came off with an apparent injury in their semi-final win over Bath, which Feyi-Waboso watched among a group of away fans at The Rec.
Twenty-one year-old Archie McParland has deputised excellently during Mitchell’s absence, but the experience of England’s first-choice scrum-half, potentially off the bench, would be welcome as back-up for such a big match.
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