Fiji set to face England in a thrilling lineup of four blockbuster fixtures
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With the July internationals still ahead, Fiji have officially unveiled their autumn schedule, featuring blockbuster clashes against England, France, and Spain.
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The Pacific Islanders will kick off their tour against Steve Borthwick's England on November 8, before heading to France for a showdown with Les Bleus on November 15. Spain will also host Fiji for the third time in four years, though a date for that fixture remains unconfirmed.
The Fiji Rugby Union is yet to announce venues, but CEO Rovereto Nayacalevu emphasized the significance of these high-profile tests:
“Playing against the best teams yearly, especially at the end of the year, is incredibly beneficial for teams like Fiji. With the 2027 Rugby World Cup on the horizon, these high-calibre matches are crucial for our preparation and development.”
Fiji stunned England 30-22 at Twickenham just before the 2023 Rugby World Cup—marking their first-ever win over the Red Rose—before England hit back in the quarter-finals. Meanwhile, their record against France stands at one win from twelve meetings, with their historic triumph coming in 2018 at the Stade de France.
As for Spain, Fiji have emerged victorious in both previous encounters, but the gap has been closing since their first meeting in 1999.
During the 2024 Autumn Nations Series, Fiji made history by beating Wales in Cardiff for the first time and securing a win over Spain, but they fell short against Scotland and Ireland.
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NIGEL OWENS DREAM XV:
Fullback: Israel Folau (Australia)
Owens said: “For me, it's nip and tuck between Halfpenny and Folau, next to nothing to choose between them. Leigh is brilliant because under the high ball and with his kicking at goal under pressure. He may not always break the line when running but puts his body on the line in defence and is a top-notch match-winner.
“But I go for Folau – only just, I should stress – because of his ability to seemingly beat his man every time he gets the ball in his hand. He's such an exciting player and like Leigh he is one of the best under the high ball.
“It's a toss of a coin for me… and it's come down in Folau's favour.”
Winger: Stuart Hogg (Scotland)
Owens said: “How can you fail to be impressed when watching Hogg play. He's so exciting as he burst into that line and, of course, was named Six Nations player of the tournament.
“I know he's a full-back for Scotland, but he is so quick and direct he could easily play on the wing. He reminds me a bit of Shane Williams with some of the things he does.
“When you see who is on the other wing in my team, you'll see how they would work brilliantly in tandem.”
Outside-centre: Brian O’Driscoll (Ireland)
Owens said: “Not only is he one of the greatest centres in the history of rugby union but he's a fantastic man off the field as well. O'Driscoll has been a wonderful ambassador for the sport and a real leader. He always respected referees and set the right example for others to follow.
“A legend of the game who conducted himself superbly, on and off the pitch.”
Inside-centre: Ma’a Nonu (New Zealand)
Owens said: “He's another brilliant player and after every game, win or lose, he would come up and give me a hug. Ma'a has always found time at after-match functions or at breakfast if we've been staying at the same hotel to come over and have a chat.
“What a player, mind, too. One of the stalwarts of the New Zealand side for so many years.”
Winger: Shane Williams (Wales)
Owens said: “When people ask me who is the best player I have refereed it's pretty much an impossible task to pick one because I've been lucky enough to take charge of so many greats.
“But if I'm pushed, I would pick Shane for what he achieved after coming from football at 17 or 18 years of age.
“He was in the mould of Gerald Davies in how he left defenders gasping for air as he beat them with those dazzling sidesteps. Nobody would fancy defending against a back three of Shane, Hogg and Folau, I can tell you that.”
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