Steve Borthwick’s England rugby team is looking to strengthen its position ahead of the 2027 Rugby World Cup in Australia. With new talent infusing the squad, recent victories against Ireland in 2024 and France this year have raised hopes of becoming a strong contender. However, England faces challenges, as they have not claimed the Six Nations title since 2020 and have not defeated a top-tier southern hemisphere team since 2022.
Upcoming Autumn Series Fixtures
This autumn, England will face Australia, Fiji, New Zealand, and Argentina. These matches serve as critical opportunities for the team to improve its standing in international rugby, currently ranked fifth in the world. As they prepare to challenge prominent teams, they have an opportunity to change perceptions and establish themselves among the elite.
Team Goals and Aspirations
England captain Maro Itoje highlighted the team’s ambitions during a recent interview. He expressed the desire to win significant trophies like the Six Nations and World Cups. Itoje stated, “To reach those goals, we have to win games like the one in front of us [against Australia].” This sentiment underscores the importance of upcoming matches in shaping the team’s future.
Recent Performance and Strategic Changes
Since their initial loss to Ireland in the Six Nations earlier this year, England has rebounded with a seven-match winning streak. A notable series victory in Argentina showcased the team’s potential under Borthwick’s leadership. However, past experiences highlight areas for improvement; late-game mistakes have previously cost them against Australia and New Zealand.
- Recent Wins:
- Victory over Ireland (2024)
- Victory over France (2023)
- Series win in Argentina (2023)
- Current World Ranking: 5th
- Last Six Nations Title: 2020
In a strategic move, Borthwick has selected six British and Irish Lions, including Ellis Genge and Tom Curry, to bolster the bench against Australia. This depth aims to maintain high intensity throughout the match. Italy noted the importance of teamwork in overcoming challenges, emphasizing the need for resilience in tough situations.
Looking Ahead
As England approaches their autumn series, the message is clear: to become a dominant force, they must consistently defeat top-tier opponents. With aspirations high and momentum building, the coming matches are pivotal for establishing England as a true contender in international rugby.
