Rugby's Depth on Full Display: England A vs All Blacks XV in a Battle of Emerging Talent
The 2025 Autumn Internationals kicked off with a thrilling clash between England A and the All Blacks XV at The Rec, a match that promised to showcase the future stars of two rugby powerhouses. But here's where it gets controversial: while the All Blacks XV emerged victorious with a 31-14 win, the game raised questions about the true depth of England's talent pool. Could this be a sign of shifting tides in international rugby? Join the debate and keep up with the latest rugby news by following RUCK’s Instagram broadcast channel (https://www.instagram.com/channel/AbYd2l05pp1bM_Ix/).
Scroll down for a detailed breakdown of England’s player performances against the All Blacks XV.
The match began with a scrappy, stop-start rhythm, but it was the All Blacks XV who drew first blood. Caleb Tangitau’s try, following a series of powerful phases and penalty advantages, set the tone for the visitors. Their second try, around the 25-minute mark, came courtesy of Jamie Hannah, who capitalized on a stolen pass near halfway to launch a rapid counter-attack—a classic All Blacks move. And this is the part most people miss: despite England’s flashes of brilliance, handling errors and penalties plagued the first half, leaving the All Blacks XV narrowly ahead at the break.
England finally found their rhythm through Josh Hodge, whose anticipation and skill led to their first try. Hodge’s ability to latch onto an overthrown pass and slice through the defense was a highlight, but it wasn’t enough to shift the momentum decisively. The second half mirrored the first, with handling errors leading to frequent scrums and stoppages. The All Blacks XV capitalized on an England knock-on, with Josh Jacomb extending their lead in the 54th minute. Rivez Reihana’s try, on his first touch of the match, showcased the visitors’ clinical edge, while Folau Fakatava sealed the deal with a try just minutes from time.
Joe Batley provided a late consolation score for England, but it was too little, too late. Mark Mapletoft’s side will take some positives into their next game against Spain, but questions remain about their consistency and ability to compete with top-tier opposition.
England A Player Ratings vs All Blacks XV
15 Josh Hodge – 7.5
A standout performance at fullback. Hodge’s early box kick won a crucial penalty, and his anticipation set up England’s only try. His conversions were flawless, and his awareness in the backfield relieved pressure multiple times.
14 Noah Caluori – 6.5
A promising senior debut, though slightly underwhelming. Caluori showed sparks of brilliance, winning aerial contests and making a crucial defensive play. However, a casual long kick could have been costly. A player to watch, but with room to grow.
13 Angus Hall – 6.5
Solid in midfield, Hall displayed good positional sense and strength on the ball. An unfortunate knock-on denied him a try, but his defensive and attacking contributions were noteworthy.
12 Max Ojomoh – 6.5
Energetic and impactful, Ojomoh stepped up after the All Blacks took the lead. His work as first receiver and a huge turnover in his own 22 showcased his awareness and physicality.
11 Ollie Hassell-Collins – 9
An outstanding performance cut short by injury. Hassell-Collins was rock solid under the high ball and a constant threat in attack. His sharp footwork and aerial dominance played a key role in Hodge’s try. A real loss when he came off after 60 minutes.
10 Charlie Atkinson – 7.5
A lively and intelligent display. Atkinson’s sharp offloads and tempo control kept England in the game. While his assist for Hodge’s try was slightly fortunate, his composure and timing were commendable.
9 Archie McParland – 8.5
A confident and lively performance from the young scrum-half. McParland’s box kicking and speed of service were excellent, and his risky passing mostly paid off. His energy and pace added a dynamic edge to England’s attack.
1 Emmanuel Iyogun – 6
A mixed performance in the front row. Iyogun won a key scrum penalty but struggled to make an impact with ball in hand. Ill-discipline at the breakdown marred an otherwise solid display.
2 Jamie Blamire – 6.5
Reliable lineout work, but a costly knock-on near the line will haunt Blamire. A decent shift overall, but he’ll be disappointed with that missed opportunity.
3 Afolabi Fasogbon – 6.5
Steady in the front row, Fasogbon held his own in tough contests. His hard work in a scrappy first half was commendable, though unspectacular.
4 Tom Lockett – 6
A dependable performance on his second England A appearance. Lockett took his lineouts well and worked hard, despite not being heavily involved. His resilience after an early knock was notable.
5 Joe Batley – 7.5
Batley’s intent to play with the ball was refreshing for a lock. His strong run and late try showcased his potential, though an outstanding tackle prevented a bigger impact.
6 Ethan Roots (c) – 7
A commanding presence, Roots showed strong running and held his own at the breakdown. His late penalty win demonstrated leadership and resilience, even as the All Blacks edged him in that area.
7 Tom Pearson – 7.5
Tireless and physical, Pearson made powerful carries and a brilliant turnover. While a knock-on led to a try, his high workrate and commitment were undeniable.
8 Greg Fisilau – 6
A hardworking performance, Fisilau showed neat offloads and defensive commitment. While his impact with ball in hand was limited, his industrious effort was evident.
Replacements:
16 Kepu Tuipulotu – 6
17 Tarek Haffar – 6
18 Vilikesa Sela – 6
19 Ben Bamber – 6
20 Fitz Harding – 6.5
21 Caolan Englefield – 6.5
22 Rekeiti Ma’asi-White – N/A
23 Adam Radwan – 6.5
Editor’s Picks:
- Richie McCaw Absolutely Hated and Had Zero Respect For One Player (https://www.ruck.co.uk/richie-mccaw-absolutely-hated-and-had-zero-respect-for-one-player/)
- The Best Rugby Players in the World (Ranked 20-1) (https://www.ruck.co.uk/the-best-rugby-players-in-the-world-ranked-20-1/)
- New England captain is ‘related to legendary boxer Muhammad Ali’ (https://www.ruck.co.uk/new-england-captain-is-related-to-legendary-boxer-muhammad-ali/)
- Siya Kolisi’s net worth plunges following divorce – he did the right thing (https://www.ruck.co.uk/springbok-captain-siya-kolisis-net-worth-plunges-following-divorce-he-did-the-right-thing/)
- Springbok star Eben Etzebeth open to shock short-term move (https://www.ruck.co.uk/springbok-star-eben-etzebeth-open-to-shock-short-term-move/)
NAME THE MOST CAPPED MEN’S INTERNATIONAL PLAYERS:
Think you’re a rugby trivia master? You have 5 minutes to name all 56 players on the list of the world’s most-capped international rugby players. No cheating! From Alun Wyn Jones to Courtney Lawes, can you recall every name? Focus on stars from Wales, New Zealand, Australia, South Africa, and other top nations, but don’t forget the surprise entries! Ready… Set… Go!
Final Thought: Is England’s depth truly as strong as we thought? The All Blacks XV’s victory raises questions about the future of English rugby. What do you think? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
