Ireland line up blockbuster fixture ahead of 2027 Rugby World Cup

Road to Australia.

Ireland are reportedly set for a blockbuster clash with England as part of their preparations for the 2027 Rugby World Cup in Australia.

According to The Times, England have lined up home warm-up Tests against Ireland, France and Italy ahead of next year’s tournament.

The three matches are expected to take place across August and September 2027, with Allianz Stadium, Twickenham, the likely venue.

It means Andy Farrell’s side are set to travel to London for another meeting with their Six Nations rivals just weeks before heading to Australia for the World Cup.

England would traditionally face Wales as part of their preparations for a World Cup, but the two countries have been drawn together in the same pool for the 2027 tournament.

Steve Borthwick’s side are therefore set to face three different Six Nations opponents as part of their final preparations, with Ireland among the headline fixtures.

The game will add another major Test to Ireland’s pre-Rugby World Cup schedule.

Ireland are already confirmed to face Australia at GIO Stadium in Canberra on September 18, just nine days before the Wallabies open the World Cup against Hong Kong.

Farrell’s side will then begin their World Cup campaign against Portugal in Sydney on October 4 before facing Scotland in Perth six days later.

Ireland complete their Pool D campaign against Uruguay in Melbourne on October 17.