Autumn Team of the week: England and Springboks dominate again

Sunday, 23 November 2025 at 18:45

byRugby Rucker

The final weekend of the autumn internationals delivered all the drama, skill, and brute force fans could hope for.

Wales’ valiant effort couldn’t stop New Zealand running rampant, while South Africa and England continued their dominance.

France and Italy dazzled with attacking flair, and Scotland made a statement with a merciless whitewash over Tonga.

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Scores at a glance:

Wales 26 – 52 New Zealand
Ireland 13 – 24 South Africa
France 48 – 33 Australia
Italy 34 – 19 Chile
Scotland 56 – 0 Tonga
England 27 – 23 Argentina

AUTUMN TEAM OF THE WEEK:

1. Boan Venter (South Africa)

Hooked before half-time, but not because he struggled—Venter dominated Tadhg Furlong in the scrums and wreaked havoc around the park. His clear-outs and bull-like charge nearly yielded a try, only denied by a forward pass. From shock call-up to Green and Gold powerhouse—this is the breakout prop of the year.

2. Malcolm Marx (South Africa)

World Rugby Player of the Year and Man of the Match in one. Marx’s lineouts were largely flawless, his breakdown work ruthless, and his scrum power unrelenting. Ireland’s pack never knew what hit them. A defining display in a season already packed with personal milestones.

3. Zander Fagerson (Scotland)

Returned from a lengthy injury layoff and looked like he never left. Reliable in his core duties, confident with ball in hand, and imposing before being replaced by Will Hurd in the 48th minute—a textbook comeback shift.

4. Fabian Holland (New Zealand)

Back from illness and immediately back to All Blacks business. The Dutch-born lock was impeccable at the lineout, ensuring New Zealand remained perfect in the set-piece. Holland is shaping into one of the All Blacks’ brightest lights this season.

5. Maro Itoje (England)

A nightmare for Argentina’s lineout. Defensively relentless, Itoje racked up 22 tackles, and when England needed pressure, he delivered.

6. Siya Kolisi (South Africa)

The Bok captain was everywhere—launching attacks, smashing defenders, and leading by example.

7. Jamie Ritchie (Scotland)

A complete performance across attack and defence. Scored the opening try, combined brilliantly with Bradbury, and made his presence felt every minute.

8. Jasper Wiese (South Africa)

Powerful, influential, and bruising, even if a misread pass cost a Venter try. Wiese dominated the physical exchanges throughout.

9. Cobus Reinach (South Africa)

Controlled proceedings at scrum-half with intelligence and precision. His box-kicks set the platform, and he capitalized on opportunities, scoring himself and creating for others.

10. Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu (South Africa)

Escaped a potential yellow for a hit on Tommy O’Brien, but aside from that delivered a brilliant display. Showed his trademark power and pace to score yet another test try and dictated play with maturity beyond his years. A generational talent already central to the Boks’ future.

11. Tom Rogers (Wales)

A hat-trick hero against the All Blacks, Rogers was a constant attacking threat, finishing superbly each time.

12. Max Ojomoh (England)

A sensational Twickenham debut. His opportunistic first try and pinpoint cross-kick for Feyi-Waboso under pressure made him a standout.

13. Nicolas Depoortère (France)

Back-to-back braces and rock-solid defence. Stopped dangerous breaks and consistently threatened with ball in hand.

14. Louis Bielle-Biarrey (France)

Two tries and a crucial assist showed his elusiveness and instinct, leaving defenders grasping at shadows.

15. Damian Willemse (South Africa)

Explosive from the outset, opening the scoring and commanding the backfield with precision. His offloads and aerial prowess were exceptional, proving he may be the world’s best fullback on nights like this.

Quiz: Name these 10 retro rugby players

From jaw-dropping tries to unforgettable moments (and yes, some questionable haircuts), these players defined a golden era of the game. If their names don’t instantly come to mind, we suggest a quick trip to YouTube to jog your memory. Trust us, it’s worth it.

Ready to test your knowledge? Let’s see if you’ve still got it. Good luck!