Monday 8 September 2014

Rugby World Cup 2015: England hope to steal a march with high-altitude ...


Although any direct benefits of training so high above sea level will have

expired by the time of the start of the tournament on Sept 18 next year,

training in thin air has the advantage of increased fat burn, which should

ensure the squad return to the UK in good shape ahead of their three World

Cup warm-up matches.



The trip will also break up England’s preparations – one of the criticisms of

the last World Cup was that the squad spent too long at their Pennyhill Park

base – and allow the squad to train away from the spotlight of being the

host nation.



It is expected that a link-up with the United States Eagles squad, who are

also based in Colorado, will also take place during the two-week trip, which

could culminate with a training match against Mike Tolkin’s side.



Lancaster is likely to bring a squad of around 40 players to the US following

an initial two-week training camp at Pennyhill Park.



England will then reassemble after a week’s break following the Denver trip to

prepare for Test matches against France

at Twickenham on Aug 15 and at the Stade de France on Aug 22.



Under World Cup rules, Lancaster must then name a 31-man World Cup squad on

Aug 31 before his team face their final warm-up match against Ireland

at Twickenham on Sept 5.



Meanwhile, three members of England Women’s World Cup-winning side have

decided to retire with immediate effect, including Maggie Alphonsi, one of

the best known players in the women’s game.



Alphonsi, Joanna McGilchrist and Katherine Merchant, who all starred in

England’s 21-9 victory over Canada in Paris last month, on Monday confirmed

their retirements after making outstanding contributions to the national

side.



Alphonsi, 30, made her international debut in 2003 against the US and played

in three World Cups, winning seven consecutive Six Nations Grand Slams in

her 74 caps.



Merchant scored a remarkable 44 tries in 58 caps for England, while Gilchrist

won 61 caps.



Bath have confirmed that flanker Mat Gilbert is to leave the club, while the

Ospreys have signed South African lock De Kock Steenkamp on a three-year

deal from Super Rugby side Stormers.



Rugby World Cup 2015: England hope to steal a march with high-altitude ...

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