RFU chief executive Ian Ritchie: No "hasty reaction" to England elimination

RFU chief executive Ian Ritchie has insisted that there will be no "hasty reaction" to England's elimination from the Rugby World Cup.

The Red Rose became the first host nation to fail to reach the knockout stage of the competition following their 33-13 defeat to Australia at Twickenham, which has put coach Stuart Lancaster's position under immense scrutiny.

However, Ritchie is adamant that English rugby's governing body will allow the dust to settle on their exit before making any decisions regarding the future of the team.

"Both as RFU chief executive and as a lifetime supporter of the England team I speak for so many by saying how disappointed we are at the losses to Wales and Australia, where hopes were so high that we could achieve something special," Ritchie told England's rugby's official website.

"I would like to stress, however, that there will be no hasty reaction to England's performance in this Rugby World Cup.

"Lessons will be learnt from the results and they will be found in a calm, clear, rational and thorough manner in the fullness of time post tournament."

England still have their final Pool A match to play against Uruguay before their tournament ends.