Wales – C-
Expectations for Wales were extremely low, so it’s hard to be too harsh. They also still have a chance to improve their mark with South Africa up next.
A narrow win over Japan keeps them in the second band for the World Cup draw — which was the realistic aim this autumn — so that’s a positive.
Losses to Argentina and New Zealand exposed defensive issues, but there were also signs that Steve Tandy is building something. They shouldn’t be marked too highly, but they don’t deserve too harsh a grade either.
England – A+
You can’t argue with four wins from four. Few expected Steve Borthwick’s side to pull that off, especially with a historic victory over the All Blacks on home soil — their first since 2012, and their first against New Zealand anywhere since the 2019 World Cup semi-final.
A late wobble against Argentina is the one major criticism, but the way they held on showed real character and resilience. England have finally proven they can edge tight games, which was a big concern last autumn. They’ll be delighted with the progress, and an 11-match winning streak speaks for itself.
Italy – B+
Very few people thought Italy would beat Australia, and that result felt like a real statement that they’re becoming a genuinely competitive side.
They also pushed South Africa despite the Boks going down to 14 men and handled Chile while handing debuts to some exciting young players. A hugely encouraging autumn for the Azzurri.
Australia – D-
After a promising Lions series and Rugby Championship, Australia looks like they’ve taken a big step backwards — possibly due to fatigue after a gruelling schedule.
Losses to England, Italy, Ireland, and France will sting, and the worrying thing is how much of their progress from earlier in the year seems to have evaporated. Maybe it’s physical and mental burnout, but four defeats from four simply isn’t good enough for the Wallabies.
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