Prem to use Test-style refereeing to boost England's World Cup bid

Prem clubs have agreed to referee 2026-27 matches to Test standards to ready England for the 2027 World Cup in Australia. Offside line, breakdown — the contest for ball after tackle — and scrum brake-foot law face stricter calls, the Guardian reported. The shift follows talks with Steve Borthwick and is eased by no relegation.