Can England Capitalise on Ardie Savea’s Absence Against the All Blacks?

England have been handed a significant advantage ahead of their Nations Championship showdown with New Zealand, with All Blacks captain Ardie Savea ruled out of the November internationals through injury.

Steve Borthwick’s side will welcome New Zealand to the Allianz Stadium, Twickenham on Saturday 21st November 2026, looking to secure consecutive victories over the All Blacks following their memorable 33-19 triumph in November last year.

However, the visitors will arrive in London without one of the most influential players in international rugby, with Savea’s shoulder injury forcing head coach Dave Rennie to rethink his plans ahead of a crucial encounter in the inaugural Nations Championship.

 

How Significant Is Ardie Savea’s Absence for New Zealand?

Few players have been as important to the All Blacks in recent years as Ardie Savea, whose performances have established him among the finest forwards in world rugby.

The 33-year-old, who was crowned World Rugby Men’s Player of the Year in 2023, has developed into one of New Zealand’s most influential figures through his outstanding physicality, defensive contributions and ability to create opportunities in attack.

Savea suffered a dislocated shoulder during New Zealand’s September series against South Africa, subsequently requiring surgery that ruled him out of the autumn internationals against Scotland, Wales and England.

His absence represents far more than the loss of an experienced international. Savea’s influence at the breakdown, his ability to win turnovers and his exceptional ball-carrying make him a player capable of changing the direction of a match.

Furthermore, his leadership will be missed, with experienced hooker Codie Taylor taking over the captaincy for New Zealand’s Northern Hemisphere tour.

For England, facing the All Blacks without their inspirational captain could provide an important opportunity to gain the upper hand in what promises to be another fiercely contested encounter.

Who Could Replace Savea in the All Blacks Back Row?

Despite losing their captain, New Zealand still possess considerable strength in depth, with several talented forwards competing for places in Rennie’s starting line-up.

Wallace Sititi is among the most exciting players available to the All Blacks. The powerful back-row forward has established himself at international level and possesses the athleticism and physical presence to cause England problems.

Peter Lakai and Ethan Blackadder are also included in the touring squad, providing alternative options as Rennie considers how best to compensate for Savea’s absence.

Leicester Fainga’anuku has also been selected among the loose forwards, giving New Zealand another physically imposing option.

However, replacing Savea’s individual qualities and leadership will present a considerable challenge, particularly against an England side determined to build on their recent success against New Zealand.

England’s Forwards Could Hold the Key at Twickenham

While Savea’s absence will undoubtedly influence New Zealand’s preparations, England must ensure they capitalise on the opportunity rather than underestimate the visitors.

Borthwick has several outstanding forwards available, including Ben Earl, Tom Curry, Maro Itoje and the exciting Henry Pollock, who could all play important roles in determining the outcome of the contest.

The battle at the breakdown is likely to prove particularly significant, with England hoping to disrupt New Zealand’s attacking rhythm and secure valuable possession.

Borthwick recently highlighted the importance of improving England’s performances in contact situations and defence, acknowledging the considerable difference between domestic rugby and the demands of international competition.

If England can establish physical dominance and prevent the All Blacks from generating quick attacking ball, the absence of Savea could become increasingly apparent as the contest develops.

However, New Zealand remain a formidable opponent, with the likes of Beauden Barrett, Will Jordan, Jordie Barrett and Richie Mo’unga providing exceptional quality throughout their backline.

Can England Repeat Their Memorable 2025 Victory?

England will certainly take confidence from their most recent meeting with New Zealand, having secured an impressive 33-19 victory at Twickenham in November 2025.

Despite falling 12-0 behind in the opening stages, Borthwick’s men produced an outstanding response, with tries from Ollie Lawrence, Sam Underhill, Fraser Dingwall and Tom Roebuck helping England secure a famous victory.

George Ford was instrumental in the result, producing an excellent tactical performance that included two drop goals as England registered their first home victory over New Zealand since 2012.

The result demonstrated England’s ability to compete with and defeat one of international rugby’s traditional powerhouses, providing renewed confidence ahead of their latest encounter.

Nevertheless, England’s performances throughout 2026 have been inconsistent, with defeats against South Africa in the Nations Championship and a difficult Six Nations campaign highlighting areas requiring improvement.

With Australia and Japan also visiting Twickenham before the All Blacks, Borthwick will be hoping his side can build momentum ahead of their final pool fixture.

The opportunity to record another victory over New Zealand, particularly with the visitors missing their captain, could provide an important boost as England continue preparing for the 2027 Rugby World Cup.

England v New Zealand Nations Championship Hospitality

England’s meeting with New Zealand on Saturday 21st November promises to be one of the standout occasions of the autumn international calendar, with both nations competing for valuable points ahead of the inaugural Nations Championship Finals Weekend.

Supporters looking to enjoy this international rugby encounter in style can explore England v New Zealand hospitality packages with Eventmasters.

Our Twickenham Stoop hospitality experience includes a Champagne reception, four-course pre-match dining, an inclusive bar and rugby entertainment hosted by former England international Tim Stimpson. Please note that this is a hospitality-only experience and match tickets are not included.

Alternatively, our exclusive Private Box hospitality packages offer premium dining, drinks and excellent views of the action from private suites at the Allianz Stadium.

With England looking to overcome the All Blacks once again, this promises to be a fantastic occasion for rugby supporters and corporate guests alike.

Explore England v New Zealand hospitality packages with Eventmasters today.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is Ardie Savea missing England v New Zealand in 2026?

Ardie Savea will miss the Nations Championship match against England after suffering a shoulder injury during New Zealand’s September series against South Africa. The All Blacks captain required surgery and has been ruled out of the November internationals.

Who will captain New Zealand against England?

Experienced All Blacks hooker Codie Taylor has been appointed captain for New Zealand’s November tour in the absence of Ardie Savea.

When is England v New Zealand in the Nations Championship?

England will face New Zealand at the Allianz Stadium, Twickenham on Saturday 21st November 2026, with kick-off scheduled for 14:10 GMT.