With the 2027 Rugby World Cup draw now locked in, England’s route to the final is starting to come into focus.
Steve Borthwick’s men appear to have avoided several of the tournament favourites in the early knockout rounds, giving them a genuine opportunity to build on their semi-final run in France four years ago.
From navigating the pool stages to a potential showdown with rugby’s biggest heavyweights in the latter rounds, here’s how England’s projected path to Rugby World Cup glory could unfold in Australia.
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Pool Stage
England have been drawn with Wales, Tonga and Zimbabwe in Pool F at the 2027 Rugby World Cup. Although Wales are likely to strengthen by then, Steve Borthwick’s team will still be firm favourites to top the pool and advance to the round of 16 without major difficulty.
Round of 16
If England top their group, they will meet the Pool B runners-up in the round of 16. Pool B features South Africa, Italy, Georgia and Romania. The Springboks are expected to win the pool, meaning England would avoid the reigning back-to-back world champions, and the remaining teams are unlikely to pose a major threat.
Italy are the most probable candidates for second place. Although they are an improving side and far from a guaranteed victory, England should still be confident of beating them.
