As the chill of autumn sweeps across Europe, rugby fans are gearing up for a fierce few weeks.
The southern hemisphere’s best are back on northern soil, ready to lock horns with their European rivals.
But this year’s autumn internationals carry an even bigger weight — the 2027 World Cup draw happens right after the series, and the results could shape how the pools are formed.
So, with so much on the line, who better to break it all down than England’s World Cup-winning coach and Daily Mail Sport columnist, Sir Clive Woodward?
Fans sent in their burning questions — and Sir Clive didn’t hold back.
England’s Line-Up Against Australia: Smart Selections and Strong Signals
When asked about England’s upcoming clash with Australia, Sir Clive couldn’t hide his enthusiasm.
He’s especially pleased to see Tommy Freeman slotting in at outside centre — a position he believes the Northampton star was born to play.
“I’ve always said Freeman’s the man for the 13 jersey,” he explained.
“He’s been excellent on the wing, but he’s built for centre.”
Sir Clive also backed the selection of George Ford at fly-half, praising both Ford and Fin Smith as top-quality options.
“Ford’s form has been superb, so you can’t argue with that call,” he added.
He expects England to play fast, dynamic rugby — and start the series with a statement win over the Wallabies.
Borthwick’s ‘Hybrid’ Game Plan: Genius or Gamble?
England head coach Steve Borthwick has been experimenting with flexibility — even toying with the idea of using players like Ben Earl and Henry Pollock in unconventional backline roles.
Some see it as clever innovation; others think it’s overcomplicating things.
Sir Clive’s verdict? Balance is key. “Consistency in selection is vital,” he said, “but it’s smart to prepare for the unexpected — injuries, cards, anything can happen.
Giving players the versatility to adapt is a huge advantage.”
He pointed out that other teams, like South Africa and Italy, are trying similar tactics.
But he doubts we’ll see Earl actually starting at No 12 anytime soon.
Players With the Most to Prove This Autumn
Every England player knows they’re under pressure to perform, but Sir Clive singled out a few who’ll be under particular scrutiny.
At full-back, Freddie Steward needs to build on his aerial strength by showing more attacking intent and improving his defensive consistency.
Meanwhile, young flanker Guy Pepper has a golden chance to make his mark in a highly competitive position.
And at hooker, veteran Jamie George — now 35 — will be out to prove he still has the legs and leadership to carry England into the 2027 World Cup.
What Success Looks Like for England
For Sir Clive, England’s goal this autumn is simple: beat the best.
“To be real World Cup contenders, you need to have wins over the southern hemisphere giants under your belt,” he said.
He believes England can — and should — treat the autumn fixtures like a mini World Cup, aiming to win three out of three and finish with a statement victory.
“Do that,” he added, “and they’ll head into the Six Nations full of belief — and we’ll all have a happier Christmas!”
Ranking the Home Nations’ Progress Toward 2027
Sir Clive had some blunt assessments when comparing England’s home rivals.
He believes England are in the best position overall — improving fast, confident, and still with room to grow.
Wales, he said, are “in a mess” both on and off the field, with structural chaos and uncertainty overshadowing their talent.
Scotland, meanwhile, have failed to capitalise on their so-called golden generation, and their youth pipeline isn’t producing the next wave of stars.
Sir Clive suggested coach Gregor Townsend is distracted by outside commitments and should focus entirely on Scotland.
That leaves Ireland, who remain brilliant but face an aging squad and tough transition ahead.
Ireland’s Aging Core Could Be a Problem
Looking at Ireland’s clash with New Zealand in Chicago, Sir Clive expressed some concern about their long-term future.
“They’ve lost giants like Sexton, O’Mahony, and Murray,” he said.
“But they still rely on several players who’ll be on the wrong side of 30 by 2027.”
He thinks head coach Andy Farrell will need to inject fresh blood soon — though he’s not convinced the young Irish talent pool is strong enough just yet.
“That could cause issues down the line,” Sir Clive warned, “even if they remain a top side right now.”
Twickenham’s Matchday Experience: A “Shambles”
Sir Clive didn’t mince words when asked about the fan experience at Twickenham. “It’s just awful,” he said bluntly.
“You can’t watch a game properly because people are constantly getting up to go to the bar or the toilet. It ruins the match.”
He proposed that, like football stadiums, drinks should be confined to the concourse — not the stands.
“It’s about creating the right atmosphere, not just making money,” he urged the RFU.
The Marcus Smith Question
When asked why Marcus Smith keeps missing out on England selection despite his talent, Sir Clive offered a straightforward answer — inconsistency.
“Smith’s highs are brilliant, but his lows are too low,” he said. “Ford and Fin Smith have simply been more reliable.”
Still, he remains hopeful Marcus will rediscover his best form and challenge for a spot again soon.
Should Rugby’s Scoring System Change?
Sir Clive’s answer to whether penalties should be worth two points and conversions one was as short as it gets:
“No. Next question.”
He believes the game is already more attacking than ever and doesn’t need tinkering.
Taking England Around the Country
One fan asked whether England should play outside Twickenham more often. Sir Clive is all for it.
“When I coached, we played New Zealand at Old Trafford in 1997 — it was an amazing experience,” he recalled.
“Giving fans in the north a chance to see England play live is really important.”
He suggested one fixture a year could easily be moved around the country, much like the women’s team have done so successfully.
Overseas Players and the R360 Dilemma
Sir Clive remains a strong critic of the RFU’s rule banning overseas-based players from representing England.
“It’s outdated and self-serving,” he said. “Jack Willis should be playing this autumn.”
However, he does support the unions’ collective stance against players joining the new R360 rebel league, which he fears could “derail national teams” and “dilute rugby like LIV Golf did to golf.”
The Southern Hemisphere Star to Watch
When asked which player he’s most excited to see this autumn, Sir Clive didn’t hesitate: Will Jordan of New Zealand.
“He’s poetry in motion,” Woodward said with a smile. “An All Blacks try machine who glides over the turf — a pure joy to watch.”