Stuart Lancaster rallies England troops

England will enter their decisive showdown with Australia inspired by a call-to-arms from Stuart Lancaster urging them to look inwards in pursuit of rescuing their World Cup from disaster.

Knockout rugby has arrived two games early after the 28-25 loss to Wales left the Red Rose staring at the abyss of a group exit a mere 16 days after the tournament opened amid such high expectation.

No host nation has failed to reach the knockout phase and defeat to Australia could have damaging repercussions for Lancaster, his coaching lieutenants and Rugby Football Union chief executive Ian Ritchie.