Troubled England depart New Zealand

The England rugby squad are on their way home after a disastrous tour to New Zealand on and off the pitch.

The All Blacks crushed the visitors in both Tests, running in tries from all over the field.

But it was allegations of serious sexual assault against four England players that dominated the tour. New Zealand police were investigating after a woman made claims of sexual assault or rape.

But in the absence of an official statement from the woman, the four were free to leave the country.

The players refused to speak to detectives after taking legal advice but vigorously denied the allegations.

In response to the scandal, England rugby bosses announced a new set of standards for the players — including a clause preventing them bringing women back to the team hotel.

The rules will come into force when the players sign new contracts on July 1st.

Earlier, Director of Rugby Rob Andrew told BBC Radio 5 Live's Sportsweek programme: "It's been a difficult week, a tough week for all concerned.

"We've had to deal with it in the best way we possibly can given the fact there is an ongoing police inquiry and that makes it difficult for us to comment on any of the issues.

"But in the circumstances the players' commitment yesterday to the shirt was first-class. We were very disappointed with the final score but they put their bodies on the line. There were a lot of young guys out there."