Reece and Lauren James before signed new long-term contracts with Chelsea on Friday.
Hamilton had to settle for third as Russell – a winner in Australia six days ago – took the chequered flag 0.6 seconds clear of Charles Leclerlc.
Defending champion McIlroy beat the halfway cut with a stroke to spare – 13 shots behind Aberg, who carded a second round 63.
Head coach Steve Borthwick has remained loyal to the overhauled backline that misfired against Italy.
The England and Wales Cricket Board appears ready to reverse plans to block the Test contingent from speaking.