It could definitely have been more straightforward.
In a little over two years, England will embark on their quest to repeat their 2003 heroics and bring home the Webb Ellis trophy for a second time.
But it will require some serious performances if Eddie Jones is to mastermind a World Cup win for his side as the two confirmed opponents for England will take some beating.
The pool stage draw for the 2019 World Cup was held in Kyoto, Japan this morning and it threw up one hell of a challenge for the reigning Six Nations champions.
ENGLAND
- France
- Argentina
- Americas 1 (either USA or Canada)
- Oceania 2 (Fiji, Samoa or Tonga).
England have a decent record over their two toughest opponents in their pool though so there is cause for some hope among English supporters.
In their four World Cup meetings with France, England have come out on top on three occasions while they have also beaten Argentina on both occasions they’ve been drawn against one another in the competition.
“It’s all very exciting, we’ve got two Tests against Argentina in June so we can practice a little bit,” Jones said of the draw.
“France are improving and they are a dangerous team. Japan is a unique country with a unique culture and I think everyone here is massively excited.”
FULL POOL STAGE DRAW
Wales, meanwhile, have managed to avoid the All Blacks but face a stern test in Australia, while they will also meet Georgia at the tournament.
Scotland come up against Ireland and Japan while the qualification stages for Americas [North and South], Europe, Oceania and Africa are still taking place so we will have to wait a while yet to learn the final pools for the tournament.
Not long to wait now.
Just the 28 months…
