To be hailed as a truly great tournament this Rugby World Cup needs at least one epic knockout occasion. It is 12 years since New Zealand last lost a World Cup game but their onrushing semi-final with England could prove an era-defining fixture. Win again and, with three World Cup successes, captain Kieran Read, Sam Whitelock and Sonny Bill Williams would even edge beyond all-time greats like Richie McCaw and Dan Carter. Just two England teams, in 1973 and 2003, have ever beaten the All Blacks away from Twickenham and there is no World Cup precedent. If he and Jones can heave England into a World Cup final at the All Blacks’ expense, they will see absolutely no reason why they cannot go all the way.

Source: The Guardian October 25, 2019 13:00 UTC