# Funfair rugby: is the Prem leaving England short for Australia?

- URL: https://talkfuse.com/story/funfair-rugby-is-the-prem-leaving-england-short-for-australia/
- Published: 2026-11-06T12:00:07+00:00
- Updated: 2026-11-06T12:35:03+00:00
- Original publisher: CNA (publisher lean: Centre)
- Original article: https://www.channelnewsasia.com/sport/funfair-rugby-prem-leaving-england-short-australia-6531081
- Topics: UK, World

## Key points

- The Prem is averaging 8.1 tries per game.
- England are preparing for a different international breakdown contest.
- Australia’s Fraser McReight could threaten England at the breakdown.

## Summary

The Prem’s high-scoring, attack-focused rugby has made it entertaining to watch, but England’s upcoming match against Australia will test whether it prepares players for international demands. Coach Steve Borthwick is concerned that differences in breakdown refereeing and weaker defensive emphasis in some domestic games could leave England exposed.

The Prem is averaging 8.1 tries a game this season, ahead of the United Rugby Championship at 7.6 and France’s Top 14 at 7.2. England have worked specifically on breakdown play, where Australia can call on standout poacher Fraser McReight, while Tommy Freeman arrives in form with five tries in five league games. England’s eight Champions Cup clubs managed just one win in the opening round, adding to questions about how domestic rugby is translating to the international stage.

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Summarised by TalkFuse (https://talkfuse.com/). Quote the original publisher for the reporting and link this page for the summary and discussion.