England waiting on police call

The Auckland police have yet to speak to the England players under investigation.

The Auckland police have yet to speak to the England players under investigation following an alleged incident at the team's hotel.

The authorities told the England management, which includes barrister Richard Smith QC, they wanted to speak to the four members of the touring squad but “no arrangements” were made.

An incident involving a woman is alleged to have occurred in a private room at the team's Hilton hotel in the early hours of Sunday morning (New Zealand time) following England's 37-20 defeat to the All Blacks.

The allegation – the details of which have not been officially confirmed – was made to the Auckland police that evening but no formal complaint has yet been submitted.

“We have made it known to the England management via their representatives that we would like to speak with the team members,” said an Auckland police spokesperson.

“There are no arrangements to do so.”

England are currently in Christchurch preparing for Saturday's second Test against the All Blacks.

Police spokesperson Noreen Hegarty explained the Auckland Criminal Investigation Bureau has the authority to speak with anyone it wants, although New Zealand's bill of rights entitles those people to remain silent.

The whole issue has placed England's tour, and the build-up to Saturday's second Test, under a dark cloud.

The Rugby Football Union have remained silent other than to issue a brief statement of support for the players involved.

England captain Steve Borthwick said on Thursday he does not feel he has been let down in any way since Saturday night.

Borthwick is determined preparations for Saturday's second Test against the All Blacks are not derailed.

He explained morale in the squad was high and that England are a “tight group”.