Highlights – Ireland 24-8 England
The Rugby Football Union has been left red-faced by the leak of a video celebrating an England Grand Slam win.
It was made by sponsors Nike before England’s crushing defeat by Ireland on Saturday, which ended their hopes of a first Gland Slam since 2003.
The footage includes action shots of several players and ends with the words Grand Slam Champions 2011 appearing underneath the red rose emblem.
In a statement, the RFU admitted the leak was “disappointing”.
The full statement read: “The RFU works with all its commercial partners on their sponsorship activation.
“Forward planning is a crucial part of all commercial partnerships and all contingencies, winning or losing, have to be considered.
“It is disappointing that details of Nike’s internal planning has got into the public domain. In no way did the RFU or the England team underestimate the challenge that the Ireland team would pose.
“We were well beaten by a team who played better and we have the utmost respect for Ireland coach Declan Kidney and the Irish players.”
The shoot took place halfway through England’s Six Nations campaign, when they appeared to be well on course for the Grand Slam.
But their hopes were dashed at Lansdowne Road, where a brilliant Ireland performance saw the hosts win 24-8. Despite the defeat, England were still crowned Six Nations champions.
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England ‘Grand Slam’ video leaked