Rugby union's great hemispherical debate has been a one-sided affair for many years. Relief, however, may finally be at hand for some northerners, as Clive Woodward believes the rugby globe is about to spin in his favour.
The England manager has lined up fixtures against New Zealand, Australia and South Africa in the space of 14 days this month, together with trips to France, New Zealand and Australia next year. His aim is to see rugby's world order overturned with an England victory in the World Cup, on Australian soil, in 2003.
"People keep telling me the preparation for the World Cup begins now, but to be frank the World Cup preparation is almost finished," said Woodward, whose programme begins against New Zealand at Twickenham next Saturday.
"The preparation, which we spent a lot of time on, was based around the whole plan for the year. To go and play Australia in Melbourne and New Zealand in Wellington before the World Cup next year, and to play them all at home this autumn, is what I wanted. I don't see it as brave, I see it as fantastic.
"I think we've moved forward as a team," Woodward added, "and we have gone past the times when we used to feel inferior to the southern hemisphere. England can now go head-to-head with anyone.
"There is no fear of the All Blacks - that's what has held England rugby back for a long time. They have been in awe of the southern hemisphere countries, but hopefully now we have blown that away."
Woodward's studious preparation means that New Zealand's reputation no longer has Englishmen thinking twice about facing up to them. "Whoever plays will have to go well because there will be a lot of disappointed people when I announce the team," he said. "It's the most competitive squad I've ever had.
"I can't keep picking on reputation. I've got to be prepared to leave out an experienced player for a young player if I think he is better.
"The World Cup is a long way away, and if I cap a new player next week and he plays every Test until the finals he will become experienced - by playing in 13 games against the best teams in the world, home and away. But it's a balance. I have to make the choice."
Woodward names his team on Monday and, in a novel deal with the England sponsors O2, mobile phone users will be first to learn of his selection - via a text message. By texting "rugby" to 80202 supporters can receive news alerts, while Woodward will also provide updates over the phone in a daily premium-line interview.
"I don't write diaries or newspaper columns - we have seen recently how many problems that can cause," he said. "But I think this is a way to keep rugby fans informed. I won't be giving away trade secrets, but I will be honest because this is a big week for English rugby."
And having dealt with New Zealand, what about the Wallabies the following week? "I don't get carried away with league tables and pecking orders, but I still think Australia will be the team someone has to beat to win the World Cup," Woodward said.
"The All Blacks are still the glamour team, the Brazil of rugby, but from my point of view, a pure coaching point of view, I would say Australia are the best in the world. And that is what we are chasing. We want to beat them all."
