Context:

After a decisive 25-7 victory over Australia in their first autumn international, England's rugby squad, under head coach Steve Borthwick, showcases remarkable depth and talent, crucial as they prepare for the upcoming Rugby World Cup. Borthwick's strategic bench selections, featuring several British and Irish Lions players, highlight a strength not seen in England for years. With an eight-game winning streak, the team's leadership dynamics, particularly under Maro Itoje, appear to be fostering a positive environment. Upcoming matches against Fiji, New Zealand, and Argentina are pivotal for building confidence and potentially reshaping perceptions of England in international rugby ahead of the Six Nations.

Dive Deeper:

• England's recent win over Australia marked a significant moment, with Borthwick utilizing players from the successful summer tour in Argentina, emphasizing the depth of the squad.

• The bench during the Australia match included six British and Irish Lions, indicative of the high caliber available to the team, which has not been seen in English rugby for a long time.

• Maro Itoje, now captain since January, along with seasoned players like Jamie George and George Ford, has introduced a different leadership style, contributing positively to team morale and performance.

• The next three matches against Fiji, New Zealand, and Argentina are crucial for maintaining momentum and confidence as England seeks to establish Allianz Stadium as a formidable home ground.

• A potential 11-game winning streak could elevate England's world ranking and shift the focus from historical leadership struggles to teamwork and high-performance expectations.

• Should England perform well in upcoming matches, it could create a new perception of them as a formidable opponent, affecting how other teams prepare for engagements against them.