England’s potential route to the 2027 Rugby World Cup final is beginning to take shape following the confirmed draw — and Steve Borthwick has reason to be encouraged.
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England appear to have landed on the more favourable side of the knockout bracket, potentially avoiding several of the Rugby World Cup favourites until the final in Australia.
One supporter summed up the reaction, writing: “Borthwick should be buzzing. England can avoid the tournament’s biggest hitters until the final.”
It could prove crucial for England, who benefited from a favourable route at the 20
23 Rugby World Cup before suffering an agonising one-point semi-final defeat against eventual champions South Africa.
There are no guarantees, with pool results capable of reshaping the knockout stages, but England have been given a major opportunity.
Here is England’s projected route to the 2027 Rugby World Cup final, including the potential opponents standing in their way.
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.