Nations Championship: England vs Japan
England welcome Japan to Twickenham on 14 November 2026 for a Nations Championship fixture that promises to be one of the more intriguing encounters of the autumn window. Japan’s rapid rise in world rugby, combined with England’s home advantage at the 82,000-capacity venue, sets the stage for a compelling contest in the new global competition.
What Is the Nations Championship?
The Nations Championship is World Rugby’s new annual competition that unites the Six Nations and Rugby Championship teams, along with invited nations, in a cross-hemisphere league format. Each team plays a set number of matches during the November window, with results feeding into an overall standings table. The top four teams qualify for a Finals Weekend. The competition replaces the traditional autumn international series with meaningful, ranked fixtures that carry genuine consequences.
When and Where
Kick-off is scheduled for Saturday 14 November 2026 at Twickenham Stadium in south-west London. Twickenham is the home of England Rugby and the largest dedicated rugby union ground in the world. The stadium is best reached via Twickenham railway station, with frequent services from London Waterloo taking approximately 30 minutes. Extensive matchday transport plans, including bus services from surrounding areas, are typically in place for international fixtures.
Key Contenders
England, under Steve Borthwick, will look to impose their physicality and set-piece strength on a Japan side known for their pace, skill, and inventive attacking play. Marcus Smith’s creativity at fly-half, Maro Itoje’s leadership in the pack, and the dynamism of back-rowers like Ben Earl and Sam Underhill will be central to England’s approach. Japan, coached by Eddie Jones in his second stint with the Brave Blossoms, possess exciting talent across the backline and have proven capable of upsetting higher-ranked teams, as their famous 2015 and 2019 World Cup performances demonstrated.
How to Watch
TNT Sports holds the broadcast rights for England’s autumn internationals in the United Kingdom, with streaming available through discovery+. In Japan, coverage is typically provided by JSPORTS and NHK. World Rugby ensures global distribution of Nations Championship fixtures, so check local listings for coverage in other territories.
History
England and Japan have met on multiple occasions, with England holding a dominant record in the fixture. However, Japan’s status in world rugby has grown enormously since their 2015 World Cup shock against South Africa and their run to the quarter-finals as hosts in 2019. Eddie Jones, who coached Japan during that 2015 triumph before taking the England job, now returns to Twickenham in the opposition dugout, adding a compelling narrative to the fixture. The Nations Championship format ensures this is no longer a friendly, but a match with tangible stakes.
Tickets
Tickets are available through the Rugby Football Union’s official ticketing platform. England Rugby members receive priority booking access, with general sale following. Prices vary depending on the stand and category selected, ranging from standard seating to premium hospitality experiences. Given the novelty of the Nations Championship, demand for tickets is expected to be strong.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Japan part of the Nations Championship?
Japan participates in the Nations Championship as one of the invited nations alongside the established Six Nations and Rugby Championship teams, reflecting their growing status in world rugby.
What time is kick-off for England vs Japan?
The exact kick-off time will be confirmed closer to the match. England’s autumn internationals at Twickenham typically kick off in the early or mid-afternoon on Saturdays.
How do I get to Twickenham Stadium?
The easiest route is by train to Twickenham station from London Waterloo, a journey of around 30 minutes. Matchday bus services and road access are also available, though driving is discouraged due to limited parking.
Has Eddie Jones coached both teams?
Yes, Eddie Jones coached Japan from 2012 to 2015, including their famous 2015 World Cup campaign, before becoming England head coach. He has since returned to coach Japan for a second spell.