SHOCKING: England v Japan – George Furbank and Tom Curry Announce They Will Never Return to Start XV
SHOCKING: England v Japan – George Furbank and Tom Curry Announce They Will Never Return to Start XV
January 18, 2025 – London, England – In an unprecedented and shocking turn of events, England rugby stars George Furbank and Tom Curry have both announced they will never return to the national team’s starting XV. The explosive statements, made in a joint press conference earlier today, have sent ripples through the rugby world, raising serious questions about the state of England rugby and the future of their most senior players.
Furbank, the versatile fullback, and Curry, the dynamic flanker, have been mainstays in England’s lineup for several years, both earning spots in the starting XV for major international fixtures. However, their discontent with the team’s direction and the management of coach Eddie Jones have now led them to make this stunning declaration, leaving England’s preparations for the 2025 Rugby World Cup in disarray.
“I’ve given everything I have to England, but I can no longer be a part of what’s happening in the team,” said Furbank, visibly emotional as he addressed the media. “The way we’re being coached, the way the team is being managed—it’s just not in line with what I believe is the future of English rugby. I’ve made this decision for myself, and it’s not one I take lightly. I won’t be returning to the starting XV.”
Curry, similarly frustrated by the lack of progress in England’s recent performances, echoed Furbank’s sentiments. Despite being one of the most aggressive and effective players in the England forward pack, Curry expressed his growing frustration with the team’s stagnation.
“I’ve been part of this team for a long time, and it’s painful to say this, but I just don’t see a clear path forward,” Curry stated. “We’ve had opportunities to grow, to change the way we play, and to push ourselves to new heights. But I’m not feeling that anymore. The environment isn’t conducive to success, and it’s tough to keep putting in 100% when the system around us isn’t evolving. So, I’ve made the choice to step away from the starting XV.”
The timing of Furbank and Curry’s announcement has shocked rugby pundits, as both players are considered crucial to England’s chances in the upcoming World Cup. Their decision follows England’s disappointing performance in the 2025 Six Nations, where they suffered a demoralizing defeat to France, leading to increasing tensions within the squad. With several high-profile players voicing their concerns behind closed doors, Furbank and Curry’s public statements have sent a clear message about the growing dissatisfaction within the ranks.
The announcement has also thrown the spotlight on Eddie Jones, who has come under fire for his handling of the team. The 2025 Six Nations campaign, coupled with a series of underwhelming performances in the autumn internationals, has sparked speculation that Jones may not be the right man to lead England through the World Cup. Sources close to the RFU suggest that Furbank and Curry’s decision to step away could force the union to re-evaluate Jones’ future.
“Eddie’s position is under increasing scrutiny,” said former England international Jonny Wilkinson. “The team’s struggles are becoming more apparent, and this is a massive blow to the coach. To lose two key players like Furbank and Curry—both of whom have been integral to England’s setup for years—is a sign that the team’s culture and leadership are fractured.”
The shockwaves of Furbank and Curry’s decision have reverberated through England’s fanbase, with many expressing disappointment at the news. Supporters had hoped that 2025 would be a year of redemption following the setbacks of previous seasons, but now, with two of the team’s most reliable players choosing to step away, England’s World Cup aspirations are shrouded in uncertainty.
The RFU has yet to release an official statement regarding Furbank and Curry’s departure from the starting XV, but insiders suggest that this may be the catalyst for major changes within the team. Whether this will lead to a change in leadership, tactical overhaul, or a reevaluation of England’s broader rugby philosophy remains to be seen.
For now, Furbank and Curry have firmly closed the door on returning to England’s starting lineup, leaving their futures uncertain as the rugby world watches closely to see how the team responds to this shocking turn of events.
