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The Guardian - UK
The Guardian - UK
Sport
Exclusive by Gerard Meagher

Prem agrees to revamp refereeing in boost for England’s Rugby World Cup hopes

Prem Steve Borthwick England World Cup Rugby Australia RFU South Africa
Henry Pollock of England celebrates with Immanuel Fey-Waboso after scoring
Steve Borthwick is seeking to mount a challenge to the supremacy of South Africa at the World Cup in Australia. Photograph: Alex Livesey/The RFU Collection/Getty Images

Steve Borthwick has secured a boost to his preparations for the World Cup next year, with an overhaul in the refereeing of Prem matches for the coming season designed to help England’s hopes in Australia.

The Guardian understands that in the formal absence of relegation from the Prem for the first time this season, agreement has been reached over a number of law interpretations that will better align officiating in club matches with the international game.

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