England Captain Maro Itoje Targets Autumn Test Clean Sweep Ahead 2027 World Cup

England rugby captain Maro Itoje is leading his team with high ambitions for the autumn international series, targeting a clean sweep of four Test wins against top-tier teams Australia, Fiji, New Zealand, and Argentina as part of their build-up to the 2027 Rugby World Cup. Itoje emphasized the importance of these fixtures as part of a larger four-year cycle focused on consistent performance and preparation for major international tournaments, including the British and Irish Lions tours and the World Cup itself. Fresh from captaining the Lions to a 2-1 series victory over Australia, Itoje highlighted the team's mindset of aiming to win every game, underscoring that no opponent is unbeatable and that victories over teams like the All Blacks would be significant. The England squad includes a strong contingent of Lions players, bringing confidence and momentum, with coaching staff including new permanent backs coach Lee Blackett. Itoje also underlined the long-term motivation and excitement within the team, describing the pursuit of trophies as a powerful driving force and urging fans to expect a winning mentality. Overall, England is focused on building a strong body of work through these autumn tests to establish themselves as genuine contenders for global rugby glory in 2027.