Why England Rugby Is Poised to Become World Rugby’s No. 2 Team

Cautiously optimistic. That’s how some expect England to feel after their 33–19 win over the All Blacks.

But now isn’t the time to be timid. Now is the time to strike, and England knows it.

From the opening minutes against New Zealand, England presented a seasoned side — calm, patient and steady.

They applied consistent pressure, pushing the All Blacks back inch by inch. New Zealand still found two early tries within the first 20 minutes, but without England’s defensive work, it could have been far worse.

Instead of folding under a 0–12 deficit, England soldiered on. After Ollie Lawrence notched their first try, George Ford added two drop goals — scrappy points, but exactly what England needed to stay alive. After halftime, the switch flipped, and the rest is history.

England’s composure never wavered. The poised team that took the pitch showcased just how much they have grown since New Zealand toppled them in three consecutive matches last year. Their current 10-match winning streak only underscores their rise in form.

Now ranked No. 3 in the World Rugby Rankings, up from No. 4 the week prior, England has a legitimate shot at climbing to No. 2. It all comes down to Borthwick and his men.

Steve Borthwick’s Strategy Is Paying Off

Many doubted him, and the constant backline reshuffling didn’t help, but Steve Borthwick kept his word: he has made England a better team.

The All Blacks would normally expose any cracks in a lineup. Yet even with experiments, including trying Tommy Freeman at No. 13, Borthwick’s tactical adjustments appear to be working.

England’s ability to regain control against the world’s No. 2 team reflects not only their mental fortitude but also Borthwick’s clarity of vision. He’s establishing structure, managing expectations and ensuring his squad stays composed in pressure moments.

England’s Balance of Youth and Experience

Borthwick has crafted a roster that blends emerging talent with seasoned veterans.

Twenty-year-old Henry Pollock — nominated for World Rugby Men’s 15s Breakthrough Player of the Year — assisted Tom Roebuck’s try against New Zealand and was instrumental in England’s win over Australia.

Noah Caluori has been called up for the Argentina match, with Ollie Lawrence, Jamie George and Tom Roebuck sidelined by injury. The 19-year-old scored five tries in his Premiership starting debut, immediately catching the attention of selectors.

Though injured for the New Zealand meeting, Tommy Freeman has become an all-around contributor for England. These rising players could form the backbone of England’s future.

Then there’s George Ford — the veteran with 104 caps whose two drop goals kept England alive. His leadership, on and off the pitch, remains invaluable.

Preview: England vs Argentina — What to Expect

England’s follow-up to the All Blacks win is equally crucial.

Argentina, ranked No. 6, enters the Nov. 23 match after a 33–24 victory over Scotland. Despite trailing for 63 minutes, Los Pumas clawed back for a late win.

Their resilience mirrors the resolve England showed against New Zealand, setting the stage for a compelling matchup.

All eyes will be on Allianz Stadium at Twickenham as England chase their 11th consecutive win.

2026 Six Nations Fixtures Give England a Smooth Start

Looking ahead to Six Nations play come February 2026, England is slated for some smoother matches.

England begins Round 1 with a test against Wales at Twickenham followed by a Round 2 test against Scotland at Murrayfield.

This gives England time to start, or extend, their winning streak before moving onto tougher opponents like Ireland in Round 3 and France in Round 5.

England’s 2026 Six Nations FixturesFeb. 7, 2026 – 11:40 AM ET – vs. Wales – Allianz StadiumFeb. 14, 2026 – 11:40 AM ET – at Scotland – Scottish Gas MurrayfieldFeb. 21, 2026 – 9:10 AM ET – vs. Ireland – Allianz StadiumMar. 7, 2026 – 11:40 AM ET – at Italy – Stadio OlimpicoMar. 14, 2026 – 3:10 PM ET – at France – Stade de FranceLatest World Rugby Rankings – Nov. 17, 2025

See the official rankings on World.Rugby here.

South Africa – 93.06New Zealand – 90.33England – 89.09Ireland – 88.85France – 87.07Argentina – 85.30Australia – 81.69Fiji – 81.03Scotland – 80.22Italy – 78.98Georgia – 74.69Wales – 74.23Japan – 72.58Spain – 69.12Uruguay – 68.52USA – 68.26Samoa – 66.94Chile – 66.72Tonga – 66.66Portugal – 64.89Romania – 62.16Belgium – 61.81Hong Kong China – 59.61Canada – 58.85Zimbabwe – 58.80Autumn Nations Series Rugby Schedule 2025Week 4 – Nov. 22-23Wales vs. New ZealandIreland vs. South AfricaFrance vs. AustraliaItaly vs. ChileScotland vs. TongaEngland vs. ArgentinaWeek 5 – Nov. 29How To Watch Rugby Matches In The United States On FloRugby

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