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 ...
No comments:
Post a Comment