By The Telegraph (World News) | Created at 2024-10-16 10:40:46 | Updated at 2024-10-16 12:31:34
1 hour ago
As a gauge of where England currently stand in world rugby’s pecking order, a match against the world champions is the ultimate test. South Africa, alongside Ireland, are the form international team and possess power and flair in abundance.
When is the match?
England play South Africa on Saturday, November 16 at Twickenham (Allianz Stadium).
What time does it start?
The match kicks off at 5.40pm GMT. Or 7.40pm if you are in South Africa.
What TV channel is it on?
In the UK and Ireland, every game will be shown live on TNT Sports and discovery+.
What is the latest team news?
England
George Ford and Alex Mitchell are both doubts for England’s autumn internationals after the half-back pairing were sidelined with injury with no clear return date.
Mitchell is yet to play this season because of a concerning neck injury, while Ford suffered a torn quad muscle playing for Sale against Saracens at the weekend and was replaced after only six minutes.
The pair started four of England’s matches in this year’s Six Nations together, including the win over Ireland at Twickenham, before Ford missed the summer tour of Japan and New Zealand with an Achilles issue.
South Africa
TBC
What are the latest odds?
TBC
What happened the last time these teams played?
The semi-final of the 2023 Rugby World Cup was the last time England and South Africa went toe-to-toe, with the Springboks agonisingly coming out on top by the barest of margins, 16-15. They would go on to beat the All Blacks, also by one point, in the final.
What is our prediction?
France may argue differently, but at the top of the rugby table two teams currently stand above the rest – Ireland and South Africa. The Boks are world class from 1 to 15 and even home advantage is unlikely to be enough for England to stop the Springbok juggernaut.
Predicted score: England 15 South Africa 21
