England enters the Nations Championship under intense scrutiny after their worst Six Nations campaign. Steve Borthwick's side lost four of five matches, including a record 42-21 home defeat to Ireland and their first-ever loss to Italy. Despite backing from the RFU through the 2027 World Cup, anything less than two wins from three Tests will reignite questions about the coach's future.

Ireland faces a daunting assignment at Eden Park, where New Zealand haven't lost in 32 years. Andy Farrell's squad is decimated by injuries, with Caelan Doris and 11 other key players unavailable. The absence of Jack Crowley, Andrew Porter and several starters makes their task of ending the All Blacks' remarkable unbeaten run significantly harder.

Scotland travels to Argentina and South Africa hoping to improve their abysmal southern hemisphere record. Gregor Townsend's team has never beaten South Africa away and lost nine of 12 Tests in Australia. After impressive Six Nations wins over England and France, back-to-back losses would put Townsend back in the firing line.

Wales aims to build on Six Nations improvements when they face Argentina, South Africa and Fiji. Their July 4 clash with Fiji at home represents a must-win opportunity to establish momentum for the summer campaign ahead.