Autumn Nations Series: Week 1 Highlights and Team News
The Autumn Nations Series has commenced, with England, Scotland, South Africa, and New Zealand securing victories in their opening matches. ESPN writers have weighed in on the major talking points from the first week. England's predicted lineup for their clash against Fiji sees head coach Steve Borthwick potentially 'doubling down' on the 'Bomb Squad' tactic, aiming for backline stability.
Luke Cowan-Dickie, the England hooker, celebrated his 50th Test cap, expressing his surprise at reaching the milestone. Meanwhile, England A has announced a 30-man squad, including Saracens' teenage sensation Noah Caluori, to face the All Blacks XV at The Recreation Ground in Bath on Saturday. England has also confirmed its senior squad to face the All Blacks, with Caluori and Radwan called up. Coach Borthwick has been noted for fielding a quintet of openside scavengers, signifying a shift towards a more progressive style of play that Australia struggled to counter.
The Springboks are preparing for a grudge match against France at the Stade de France in Saint-Denis, with coach Rassie Erasmus facing several selection headaches. Following the initial matches, a 'November Test Team of the Week' has been named, featuring a Springbok described as being at his 'rampaging best' and an England star making 'mockery' of opponents. The full schedule, results, and fixtures for the 2025 Autumn Internationals, featuring England, Ireland, Scotland, Wales, France, South Africa, New Zealand, and Australia, are available. The first week of the Autumn Nations Series also saw its share of 'Heroes and Zeros'.