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England have extended their unbeaten run to nine games and are looking to fire under coach Steve Borthwick. This weekend the challenge rises several notches for England as they face the All Blacks, a team with wins against Ireland and Scotland who are on the hunt for a grand slam.
Borthwick has named a side built on tactical discipline and physical edge. With playmakers like Owen Farrell not selected, England’s focus will again be on control, territory, and aerial pressure, a style tailor-made for Twickenham’s heavy surface. Here are three players who must fire if England are to take down the All Blacks.
Ford’s selection ahead of Marcus Smith and Fin Smith is a clear signal that England will rely on structure and tactical control rather than chaos. His boot remains England’s most potent attacking weapon, and he’ll need to produce a masterclass in game management to keep the All Blacks pinned back.
Expect Ford to unleash an aerial bombardment, targeting New Zealand’s back three who all superb under the high ball, but vulnerable when forced to turn. Ford’s ability to vary his kicks, from contestable bombs to low grubbers behind the line, will be key to disrupting the All Blacks’ rhythm.
If Ford can dictate tempo and play the game in New Zealand’s half, England’s strike runners will have a platform to attack from set pieces.
England’s inside centre has quietly become one of Borthwick’s most trusted lieutenants. Dingwall’s organisation in defence will be vital against the fluid, offloading threats of the All Black’s centre pairing. He reads play exceptionally well, communicates constantly, and rarely misses a tackle.
In attack, Dingwall’s sharp lines and ability to link with Ollie Lawrence in the midfield provide England’s backs with balance. He may not produce the highlight-reel moments, but his timing and decision-making are what keep England’s structure intact.
If England are to shut down the All Blacks’ fast, layered attack, Dingwall’s defensive awareness will be at the heart of it.
When England need inspiration, Itoje delivers. The captain has been immense this Autumn and remains one of the world’s best in the contact zone. His work at the breakdown and line-out will be crucial against a New Zealand pack that thrives on quick ball and turnover pressure.
If he can disrupt New Zealand’s line-out and slow their cleanouts, England will have a fighting chance. His leadership, physicality, and sheer relentlessness make him England’s emotional and tactical compass.
