England are feeling the pressure as they prepare to face rugby giants New Zealand, Australia, South Africa, and Japan at Twickenham Stadium this November.
Having faced tough defeats to both New Zealand and South Africa in 2023, including a 2-0 summer series loss to the All Blacks and a narrow World Cup semi-final defeat to the Springboks, England are looking for redemption.
Injury concerns and squad uncertainties have added to the pressure, but the support of the Twickenham crowd and the rise of young talents could prove decisive.
Head coach Steve Borthwick will need to carefully manage his squad to ensure they capitalise on home advantage during this high-stakes series.
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#1. Autumn Internationals Fixtures & Schedule
#2. Predicting England’s Outcome
#3. England Dealt a Blow with Alex Mitchell Injury
When are England Playing? Key Fixtures & Dates
- England vs. New Zealand – November 2, 3:10 PM GMT
- England vs. Australia – November 9, 3:10 PM GMT
- England vs. South Africa – November 16, 5:40 PM GMT
- England vs. Japan – November 24, 4:10 PM GMT
Match Breakdown & Forecast
England v New Zealand
New Zealand has been in strong form throughout 2024, bouncing back after finishing as World Cup runners-up in 2023.
Under head coach Scott Robertson, the All Blacks have focused on speed, fitness, and tactical adaptability, making them a formidable opponent.
For England, this match will be the most anticipated of the series. They will look to redeem themselves after their 2-0 summer series loss to New Zealand, with home advantage offering some hope. However, New Zealand’s explosive backline, led by Will Jordan and Rieko Ioane, will be tough to contain.
Key players like Maro Itoje and Ben Earls will need to dominate the forward battle if England is to slow the game down and disrupt New Zealand’s rhythm. The tactical nous of Marcus Smith or Finn Smith will also be crucial in controlling the tempo.
Prediction: New Zealand to win by 6-8 points, with their superior execution and ability to break the game open in the final quarter proving decisive.
Note: The final squad and injury updates, particularly concerning Alex Mitchell, could significantly impact the tactical approach for this match.
England vs. Australia
Australia is still in a rebuilding phase following their disappointing 2023 World Cup campaign and the departure of Eddie Jones. Under the new leadership of Joe Schmidt, the Wallabies are integrating fresh talent, but they continue to struggle with consistency, particularly in the set-piece and defence.
England should have the upper hand here, especially at Twickenham. Steve Borthwick’s side looks more settled, though the final selection will dictate England’s approach. If they field a strong pack, England could exploit Australia’s defensive gaps and breakdown weaknesses.
Prediction: England to win by 10-12 points, controlling the match through their forwards and capitalizing on Australia’s defensive vulnerabilities.
England vs. South Africa
South Africa has maintained their dominance throughout 2024 following their World Cup triumph. The Springboks remain one of the most physical and disciplined teams in world rugby, with their ability to control territory and starve opponents of possession.
For England, this will be a real test. If injuries, such as those affecting key players like Alex Mitchell, persist, they’ll struggle to match South Africa’s tactical kicking game and forward power.
The Springboks’ physicality in the scrum and breakdown will be a significant challenge, and if England cannot field a fully fit pack, this could be a tough game to control.
Prediction: South Africa to win by 5-7 points, relying on their forward dominance and clinical execution in key moments to edge out a hard-fought contest.
England vs. Japan
Japan has struggled to recapture the magic of their 2019 World Cup performances. While their style remains fast and dynamic, with quick ball movement and a relentless tempo, they’ve often been physically overpowered by top-tier teams in 2024.
With the backing of the home crowd and the potential return of key players like Ollie Chessum and George Ford, England should have little trouble handling Japan’s pace.
England’s physicality and dominance in the set-piece will likely wear down Japan, especially in the second half when England’s superior depth comes into play.
Prediction: England to win by 18-20 points, pulling away in the latter stages with their strong set-piece and bench impact.
England Under Pressure after Alex Mitchell Injury
England’s first-choice No. 9, Alex Mitchell, remains a significant concern after sustaining a neck injury during Northampton Saints’ opening Gallagher Premiership match against Bath. His absence is a major worry for Steve Borthwick ahead of the Autumn Internationals, with Mitchell’s dynamic presence pivotal for England’s game management.
Mitchell is awaiting further medical assessments, and his availability remains uncertain.
In the event of his absence, Ben Spencer is tipped as the likeliest replacement. Spencer’s recent form has been strong, and he offers a reliable, experienced option at scrum-half.
However, Jack van Poortvliet could also be in contention, known for his quick service, though he too is recovering from injury.