A fine first-half goal from the in-form Nathan Broadhead and a late Liam Cullen own goal gave the home team the bragging rights.
Russell followed up his win in the Australian Grand Prix with pole for Saturday’s sprint race in Shanghai.
McIlroy is one over par after two rounds at the Players Championship.
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.
Top trainer and jockey awards for the week heading back to Closutton.