Can Arundell's Speed and Bench Strength Propel England to Victory?

Henry Arundell made a triumphant return to international rugby, scoring a stunning try to help England secure a 38-18 victory over Fiji, marking his first England cap since the 2023 Rugby World Cup. The match showcased England's impressive bench strength, with players like Arundell, Tom Curry, and Maro Itoje stepping up to deliver a powerful performance that extended England's winning streak to nine matches.

Last updated: 13 October 2023 (BST)

What’s happening now

England's victory over Fiji highlights their growing strength and depth in the squad, particularly as they prepare to face formidable opponents like New Zealand. With a blend of youth and experience, the team is demonstrating resilience and adaptability, crucial for their aspirations in future tournaments. Arundell's return and impressive performance not only mark a personal milestone but also signal his potential impact in upcoming matches.

Key takeaways

• Henry Arundell scored a crucial try in his first match back for England since the World Cup.
• England's bench proved decisive in securing the win against Fiji, showcasing depth in the squad.
• The victory marks England's ninth consecutive win, reflecting improved performance and morale.

Timeline: how we got here

Since the start of 2023, England has shown significant progress in their performances leading up to and following the Rugby World Cup. Key dates include:

• August 2023: England suffers a 30-22 defeat to Fiji in a warm-up match.
• September 2023: England exits the World Cup in the quarter-finals after a narrow 30-24 loss to Fiji.
• October 2023: England secures a victory over Fiji, winning 38-18 and marking their ninth consecutive win.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

Arundell's performance and return to the squad after two years adds depth to England's bench. His try and overall impact demonstrate that he can be a game-changer in tight situations.

What was already established

England's depth and bench strength have been critical in their recent successes. This trend was evident in their previous match against Australia, where substitutes made a significant impact, and continues with their performance against Fiji.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

As England's rugby team gains momentum, it could positively impact local businesses, particularly those involved in sports retail and hospitality. Increased interest in matches can lead to higher attendance at venues and boost merchandise sales.

Businesses and jobs

The growing popularity of rugby may lead to job creation in sectors supporting the sport, such as coaching, event management, and sports marketing, as well as increased sponsorship opportunities.

Policy and regulation

With rugby’s rising profile, discussions around support for grassroots initiatives and investment in youth development programmes may gain traction, potentially leading to policy changes aimed at enhancing the sport's infrastructure.

Numbers that matter

• 9 consecutive wins for England, the longest streak since 2017.
• Henry Arundell scored his try just before the 60-minute mark, adding his name to the list of impactful substitutes.
• England's victory margin of 20 points highlights their ability to pull away from opponents in the final stages of matches.

Definitions and jargon buster

• Test match: An official international rugby match played between two national teams.
• British and Irish Lions: A rugby team made up of players from England, Ireland, Scotland, and Wales that tours every four years.
• TMO: Television Match Official, a referee who reviews video footage to assist in decision-making during a match.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

England will need to maintain their momentum and focus on refining their strategies ahead of the match against New Zealand, ensuring that both new and experienced players are in sync.

Medium term (1–6 months)

As the team prepares for more challenging fixtures, including potential World Cup qualifiers, they will need to build on their recent performances to solidify their status as a top contender.

Signals to watch

• Player performance metrics, particularly for substitutes, will be key indicators of depth and adaptability.
• Injury updates on key players, such as Freddie Steward, will influence team selection.
• Public and media sentiment following matches will provide insights into the team's standing and areas for improvement.

Practical guidance

Do

• Follow the team's performance closely as they prepare for the All Blacks.
• Engage with local rugby clubs to support grassroots initiatives.

Don’t

• Underestimate the importance of bench strength in rugby matches.
• Ignore player fitness reports and their potential impact on match outcomes.

Checklist

• Keep track of upcoming fixtures and player fitness updates.
• Review past match performances to identify areas for improvement.
• Engage with local rugby communities to support the sport's development.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

While England's recent form is promising, it's important to acknowledge that performance can fluctuate. The team must remain vigilant against injuries, which could impact their squad depth. Additionally, the quality of opposition will vary, and England must adapt to the strengths of different teams as they advance.

Bottom line

England's victory over Fiji signifies a positive trend as they build towards more challenging opponents. The depth showcased by their bench players, particularly Arundell, is a promising sign for their World Cup aspirations. Continued focus on fitness and strategy will be crucial as they prepare for their next match against New Zealand.

FAQs

What does Henry Arundell's return mean for England?

Henry Arundell's return adds depth and flair to England's squad, showcasing their bench strength and providing a potential game-changing option in future matches.

How has England's recent performance changed?

England has shown improved resilience and composure in tight matches, contributing to their current nine-match winning streak, the longest since 2017.

What are England's upcoming challenges?

England faces New Zealand next, a historically tough opponent, requiring strategic adjustments and continued focus on player fitness and performance.