England’s players have agreed a temporary cut of £5,750 to their match fee in response to the financial difficulties caused by COVID-19, the PA news agency understands. Reduced from £23,000 to £17,250, the payment accounts for appearances, training and image rights as part of a new year-long arrangement with the Rugby Football Union. Even allowing for the new lower match fee, England internationals will remain the highest paid in the sport and the figure will be renegotiated next year once the financial implications of coronavirus become clearer. The Azzurri clash had to be postponed because of the coronavirus pandemic but all Championship matches are due to be completed before the autumn campaigns begin in November. All levels at Twickenham are facing cuts, including Jones who has agreed to a 25 per cent salary reduction during the crisis and is having to work with a reduced budget.

Source: Express August 30, 2020 13:07 UTC