England defend Mike Tindall and teammates after late-night partying

England’s management have defended captain Mike Tindall and a number of his teammates after reports emerged that the players spent the night drinking in Queenstown.

After the national side’s 13-9 victory over Argentina last weekend, the players were allowed Sunday night off to celebrate.

Some players have come under criticism after it was reported that a group of the squad, including 32-year-old Tindall, frequented a number of bars in the city.

"Mike and several of the players were enjoying an evening out after he had led the team to a hard-earned victory over Argentina,” an England team spokesman said.

"Like all the lads he plays for England with a massive amount of passion and he was relaxing after a tough match."

Meanwhile, head coach Martin Johnson is expected to announce his squad to face Georgia tomorrow (Friday).