The results from the Autumn Nations Series Week Two highlighted shifting dynamics in world rugby, with some notable upsets and affirmations of the true balance of power.
New Zealand’s win over Ireland (23-13) is significant as it reasserts the All Blacks’ strength, particularly after a challenging 2023 Rugby World Cup and unsatisfactory 2024. Despite Ireland’s rise as the top-ranked team going into the encounter at the Aviva Stadium in Dublin, New Zealand’s win demonstrates they still hold a strong position among rugby’s elite, particularly in high-pressure matches. There are rumblings that Ireland might just be past their peak and are either in a slow decline, or Andy Farrell’s team are in a transition.
England’s narrow upset Australia (37-42) indicates a continued lack of consistency for Steve Borthwick’s side. The Red Roses continue to wilt under pressure, with this latest loss signifying a team that does not know how to close out tight matches, with another painful reminder. No one in their right (and wrong) mind foresaw result at the Allianz Stadium (Twickenham) in London on Saturday afternoon. It suggests that, while England has potential, they are still susceptible mentally, and Australia, despite struggles of their own, appears to have rediscovered some form. And the rest of the rugby world is grateful ahead of the British and Irish Lion’s tour Down Under in 2025, and the 2027 Rugby World Cup that side, too. The sports needs a strong Wallabies side with everyone’s eyes squarely on Joe Schmidt’s charges. Incredibly, they were expect to win, at most, one match on this Grand Slam tour. Now they are 1/4, and shades of the historic Slam in 1984 might just darkening as another turning point in Australian rugby’s fortunes.
Italy’s heavy loss to Argentina (18-50) points to the growing disparity between the tier one nations and the emerging rugby powers. Argentina’s dominant performance underscores their steady progress, positioning them as an increasingly potent force in world rugby, capable of competing with the traditional powers. They beat South Africa, New Zealand, Australia and La Azzuri in a historic 2024 season, and Los Pums need only become consistent if their ambitions involve winning tournaments of any kind.
Wales’ loss to Fiji (19-24) is another sign of the growing strength of the Pacific Island teams. Fiji’s victory over Wales, a team that reached the World Cup quaretrfinals, highlights their evolution as a competitive force. Fiji’s mix of physicality and skill is increasingly unsettling traditional northern hemisphere powers. Wales… oh dear. This is easily the worst side the nation has produced in a generation, with their ‘record’-equalling 10th loss on the bounce harking back to the dark days of the 1990s and early 2000s. At this point, coach Warren Gatland cannot justify still being in the employment of the Wales Rugby Union, with his job definitely on the line.
Finally, South Africa’s barely-comfortable win over Scotland (32-15) solidifies their position as the top team on the planet. The first hour at Murrayfield in Edinburgh was rather uncomfortable for Rassie Erasmus’ men as the hosts did not take a backward step for the visitors. It was not until the introduction of the Nuclear Squad that the match came back under control, before the Springboks -more or less – strolled to victory. Up next for them: a grudge match against England.
In summary, the results underscore the shifting balance of power, with southern hemisphere nations (New Zealand, Argentina, South Africa, Fiji) asserting dominance, while northern hemisphere teams (England, Ireland, Wales, Scotland) show signs of vulnerability and inconsistency.
