England win confirms world cup readiness

England power to a 40-6 win over France in Mont de Marsan, showing a dominant pack as they build confidence before the 2025 World Cup.

England crush France in warm up ahead of the global rugby showpiece

England earned a 40-6 victory at Mont de Marsan, the biggest win over France since 2009. The forward pack controlled the day, winning clean line-outs and driving mauls that repeatedly breached the French defence. Fly half Harrison directed the kicking game and used corners to pin the home side back, while Jones crossed for a try and helped build the early lead.

Backs still need sharper execution, with some loose passes that could prove costly against tougher opponents. There were chances for more tries, but a few knock-ons kept the score from widening. The result reinforces England as world number one and a strong favorite for the World Cup, before a partisan crowd of around 7,000 that turned the clash into a test of focus and fitness.

The display underlines England as a forward-led team, with the pack setting the tempo and providing the platform for the backline. That balance matters because a tournament run demands both pressure and precision. While the win is reassuring, it also serves as a reminder that finishing touches in the backs must improve if the team wants to slice through tougher defenses.

Looking ahead to the World Cup opener and the rest of the schedule, cleaner handling and decision making will matter more than margins. The home crowd energy adds a psychological lift but also raises expectations. Coaches will want to maintain the focus on performance, not merely results, as the field tightens toward late August.

Highlights

Momentum builds as the tournament approaches