Excitement is reaching fever pitch as international rugby roars back into action this weekend with a series of mouth-watering autumn test matches. Undoubtedly the pick of the opening fixtures sees rugby heavyweights England and New Zealand go head-to-head once again at a packed Twickenham Stadium in London on Saturday.
Old Foes Renew Rivalry
These two proud rugby nations have a long and storied history, having first met way back in 1905. In more recent times, their clashes have often been era-defining, with the winner gaining a significant psychological boost. Who can forget England’s famous overtime win in the 2019 World Cup semi-final which propelled them to the final?
Their most recent tussles came in a pulsating July series in New Zealand, with the All Blacks winning a tight first test 25-17 before prevailing more comfortably 36-22 a week later. But England showed enough to suggest the gap between the sides is narrowing.
Borthwick Era Taking Shape
For England coach Steve Borthwick, this represents the first major test of his tenure after a rollercoaster year at the helm. An underwhelming Six Nations campaign was followed by that chastening summer tour defeat in New Zealand, albeit with signs of improvement.
Borthwick has faced some early challenges, not least the sudden departure of two key coaches after the New Zealand tour. As former England international Ugo Monye observed:
“Losing both your attack and scrum coach is far from ideal preparation for the autumn. Borthwick will be looking for a much-improved showing to ease any pressure.”
– Ugo Monye, former England international
The team announcement sprung a few surprises, with Henry Slade starting at outside centre despite limited recent game time after shoulder surgery. In the halves, Steve Borthwick has opted for Ben Spencer at 9 with Marcus Smith retained at fly-half. Owen Farrell’s continued absence sees the experienced Jamie George named as captain.
All Blacks Seeking Statement Win
For an All Blacks side under new management after a difficult 2022, this tour is all about building momentum a year out from the World Cup. Few would bet against them making a fast start at a venue that has often brought out their best.
Head coach Scott Robertson has made a couple of notable selections, not least shifting Beauden Barrett to fly-half after a number of outings at fullback. The mercurial playmaker will be looking to pull the strings and unleash a backline packed with attacking threats.
But as former All Black Justin Marshall noted, the forwards will be just as crucial:
“Matches between England and New Zealand are always won and lost up front. Whoever gets on top at scrum and breakdown will go a long way to winning the battle.”
– Justin Marshall, former New Zealand international
Prediction: All Blacks to Edge It
With so little recent match practice under their belt, England may just be a little underdone for this huge opening assignment. The All Blacks have had a full Rugby Championship campaign to build cohesion under a new coaching team and that extra sharpness could prove the difference.
Twickenham will be rocking and we can expect England to come out firing with their usual intensity and physicality. But over 80 minutes, New Zealand may just have a little too much for an English side still finding their way under Borthwick. It promises to be a classic contest between two fierce rivals.
Prediction: New Zealand by 6 points.
