England's discipline will be key, says Mitchell


England's rugby coach John Mitchell speaks during a news conference ahead of their Rugby World Cup match against Tonga in Sapporo, Japan September 19, 2019. REUTERS/Edgar Su

SAPPORO, Japan (Reuters) - England must be disciplined and adaptable at the World Cup given a push to eliminate high tackles and ongoing debate over the rules of the breakdown, defence coach John Mitchell said on Thursday ahead of their opener against underdogs Tonga.

Governing body World Rugby's new guidelines have put referees under scrutiny over how they deal with high and dangerous contact, and led to concerns the tournament may see a shower of red cards.

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