“Those getting to wear the England shirt”. That sums it up perfectly. Almost mascot like. These are professional sportsmen not kids being rewarded with a phoney day out. I’m absolutely sure the likes of Robson, Alo etc are absolutely chuffed to bits to be picked. That doesn’t mean there is any rugby benefit at all in it. I’m equally as sure thousands at Twickenham will have a great time - some might even watch some of the game. Again, that doesn’t make it of any benefit to anyone. For players who have had a slog of a season another training camp and game is precisely the last thing they need. But while it’s all about cash that will never be a consideration.
So the players are happy. The fans are happy. The money earned keeps people like me able to play rugby and coach more kids, and therefore keeps them happy.
We've got arguments that these are players that won't make the RWC team (and are happy to be playing), playing 1 extra fixture, and perhaps getting to wear the England shirt in the only time in their lives.
We've got arguments that these are some players that may make the rwc team (and are happy to playing), and have a chance to continue their training that they'll be doing ready for Aus anyway, so will likely be happy to improve their England game.
And there's no benefit? We have very different definitions of benefit.