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RFU chief Ian Ritchie defends Stuart Lancaster's six-year deal

Stuart Lancaster England
Image: Stuart Lancaster: Job security key, says Ritchie

RFU chief executive Ian Ritchie has defended the decision to hand England head coach Stuart Lancaster a new six-year contract.

Lancaster and his coaches Andy Farrell, Graham Rowntree and Mike Catt all extended their deals until 2020 before England were defeated by both New Zealand and South Africa in their first two autumn internationals.

"We didn't want the coaching team to be worried about what their next job is while they are in their current job," Ritchie said.

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Ritchie: England are serious contenders

"We wanted to remove any feelings that their focus may be elsewhere because I believe our coaching team are attractive to other people.

"If you have a group of talented people, there are always other options. That was part of it.

"In the build up to the World Cup, you want the coaching team focused 110 per cent on that and not thinking 'what am I doing in January?'.

It was about giving security and comfort, and about the broader feeling that we have a really good team who we want to retain. We don't want any short termism.
Ian Ritchie

"It was about giving security and comfort, and about the broader feeling that we have a really good team who we want to retain. We don't want any short termism.

"Knowing the individuals in question, there is no lack of commitment because of these contracts. They're not like that. I can't think of a more focused and committed group of people.

"Usually people work a bit better when they're focused and committed, but they feel supported and are confident about their longer-term future."

The contracts encompass two World Cup campaigns, including next year's home tournament.

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