The opening blockbuster is England against Australia, at Allianz Stadium, Twickenham on Saturday (Nov 1). The Wallabies, despite having several stars unavailable, are still capable of producing moments of team brilliance, while for England it is a question of selection - who will play at 10 from either the in-form George Ford, the enigmatic Marcus Smith, or the rapidly improving Fin Smith. Whichever player Borthwick chooses, I hope he lets him have a run of at least four international matches.
Following England playing Australia we then switch live to Chicago in the United States where Ireland takes on the All Blacks of New Zealand.
The last time these sides met in ‘The Windy City’ Ireland recorded a historic win. The All Blacks have the advantage of playing in the Rugby Championship this time around and, as a result, are match fit.
Ireland will be keen to eradicate the idea that they are a good team, slightly over the top. New talent is needed to remove the myth.
Elsewhere, while the Gallagher Premiership and URC are paused for the International season, last weekend saw some key games and results.
After five rounds of the tournament Northampton Saints top the table, playing an exciting brand of fast-flowing rugby. Bath lies in second place with a squad that can cope with injuries and suspensions.
A rejuvenated Exeter, strengthened by the arrival of Australians, Ikitau and Hooper, is in third place, and Exeter is becoming a hard place to win again.
Saracens are in the coveted fourth place and Owen Farrell still retains a backline place. When it comes to the play-off games, he may be missing from the team sheet, however.
Even after five games, both Newcastle and Gloucester are adrift of the rest and one of them may have to play off to ensure they remain in the top flight.
My advice is to watch England beat Australia, grab a refreshing beverage and then watch New Zealand beat Ireland. Apologies to all my Irish friends in Phuket!
The Global Rugby Coach, Mike Penistone, is a globally renowned professional rugby coach based in Phuket who is also an ambassador for the Asia Center Foundation, a charity for disadvantaged children. For more information visit: www.rugbycoachingconsultancy.com.