Fiji First Up For England In New Nations Championship

England are in line to begin their inaugural Nations Championship campaign in just over a year's time by playing Fiji – potentially in Europe – as well as away matches against South Africa and Argentina, the Guardian understands.

- Gerard Meagher

The 12-team competition, which will be held every two years and replaces traditional tours, will break new ground next year in the northern hemisphere summer and, while the fixture list is yet to be announced, the Guardian has learned that existing proposals put England in line to face the Springboks in South Africa for the first time since 2018. A return to Argentina – where Steve Borthwick's side will play two Tests this summer – is also on the cards.

As per tournament protocols, England's proposed match with Fiji would take place in either South Africa or Argentina but it is understood the Pacific Islanders would want the fixture to take place in Europe, mostly likely France where a substantial portion of their squad is based. Should that materialise, it is expected that England would play Fiji first before travelling to South Africa and Argentina.