Manu Tuilagi set to play AGAINST England at the 2027 Rugby World Cup

 Wales face a big opener vs Argentina but have a strong chance to top this pool. Samoa adds intrigue as the dark horse.

The changes allow players to represent a new nation if they haven’t played Test rugby for three years and have a birth, parent, or grandparent connection to that country.

Tuilagi, recently named in the Top 14 Team of the Season, has openly admitted a move could be on the cards. In an interview with The Daily Telegraph, he said:

The centre has also signed a new contract with Bayonne until 2027, ruling out any return to England in the meantime.

Unlike his rugby-playing brothers Anitelea, Alesana, Henry, and Freddie — who all chose to represent Manu Samoarather than the European nations where they grew up — Manu has so far been the odd one out.

If he follows through, Tuilagi could be available for Samoa at the 2027 Rugby World Cup, although time is a factor — he would be 35 by then.

Organisers have confirmed the Rugby World Cup Draw will take place on 3 December 2025 – and it’s set to be a blockbuster

With the new six-pool format confirmed, here’s a projected draw based on current World Rugby Rankings — with Wales sitting in Band 2.

South Africa (Band 1) — Reigning World Champions, famed for their physical dominance and tactical brilliance.

Australia (Band 2) — Rugby hosts with a rich history and a passionate home crowd.

Japan (Band 3) — High-paced attackers who stunned the world in 2019.

Portugal (Band 4) — Rising force in European rugby, known for their scrappy determination.

? Storyline: South Africa vs Australia could be a World Cup final preview — Portugal and Japan will battle for third place.

Ireland (Band 1) — Consistently at the top of world rugby, masters of strategic play.

Scotland (Band 2) — Brave and battle-hardened, with a history of giant-killing performances.

Spain (Band 3) — Emerging side bringing flair and unpredictability.

Romania (Band 4) — Rugby stalwarts with physical forward packs.

? Storyline: Ireland and Scotland renew their rivalry in a high-stakes pool. Spain could cause an upset.

New Zealand (Band 1) — The All Blacks, rugby royalty with speed, skill, and killer instinct.

Fiji (Band 2) — Fijian flair and athleticism make them dangerous in any matchup.

USA (Band 3) — Big, athletic squad with growing ambitions.

Hong Kong China (Band 4) — Developing team looking to make an impact on the world stage.

? Storyline: Expect fireworks between New Zealand and Fiji; USA and Hong Kong will battle for the third spot.

England (Band 1) — Powerful, well-drilled side with a deep tactical playbook.

Italy (Band 2) — Tough, resilient side with big scrummaging power.

Tonga (Band 3) — Physical, passionate, unpredictable warriors.

Canada (Band 4) — Experienced team, looking to build consistency.

? Storyline: England should lead this pool, but Tonga’s unpredictability makes this one dangerous.

France (Band 1) — World Cup hosts in 2023, dynamic attackers, crowd favourites.

Georgia (Band 2) — Known for a dominant forward pack and fierce defence.

Uruguay (Band 3) — South American fighters with resilience to match their passion.

Zimbabwe (Band 4) — Underdogs aiming to shock the world.

? Storyline: France's depth makes them favourites, but Georgia could make it interesting.

Argentina (Band 1) — Tough, skilled, and battle-tested with World Cup pedigree.

Wales (Band 2) — Six Nations contenders with a blend of power and precision.

Chile (Band 3) — South American dark horse making their mark.

Samoa (Band 4) — Fierce underdogs with a proud history and attacking flair.

? Storyline: