George Ford says that he turned down an approach from big-money rugby union start-up R360 to extend his 102-cap England career.
The 32-year-old fly-half has signed a new three-year deal with Sale Sharks, where he has made 44 appearances and scored 341 points since joining in 2022.
England have previously confirmed that any players who join R360’s global circuit, like any other stars based overseas, will be ineligible for Test selection.
“They contacted my agent to have discussions, but my decision-making around it was purely based on the fact I’ve got unbelievable desire to play for England,” said Ford.
“I’ve loved my time at Sale Sharks as well and it never really got any further than that in terms of negotiations with the proposed new league.
“I love and I’m passionate about playing for England. I want to have the opportunity to I represent my country still. I feel I’ve still got a lot to give in a white shirt.”
R360’s aim of establishing eight all-star men’s teams for a series of events in major cities was hit by a coordinated ban from leading unions last week.
England, New Zealand, Ireland and France were joined by Scotland, Australia, South Africa and Italy in saying they would not pick any R360 recruits for international matches.
Northampton fly-half Fin Smith, a reported R360 target, made a similar call to Ford last week, extending his terms at Franklin’s Gardens, rather than pitch in with the proposed new competition.
www.bbc.com
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