Last updated on .From the section Rugby Union

Chris Ashton

England will start their 2014 autumn international campaign against New Zealand on 8 November at Twickenham, before facing South Africa, Samoa and Australia on consecutive weekends.

England coach Stuart Lancaster says the games will be a useful test a year ahead of hosting the 2015 World Cup.

"To be able to take on these teams in successive weeks is ideal preparation for the World Cup," Lancaster said.

England 2014 autumn international dates 8 November: England v New Zealand

15 November: England v South Africa

22 November: England v Samoa

29 November: England v Australia

"It will tell us a lot about where we are one year out."

New Zealand are the reigning world champions while South Africa and Australia are ranked second and fourth in the world respectively, with Samoa seventh.

Lancaster's England are currently third in the world and he said: "All four are tough opponents - we are looking forward to the challenge."

The Rugby Football Union has confirmed that the 2014 autumn schedule is still subject to final approval by the International Rugby Board.

England will shortly begin preparations for this year's autumn series, which sees them face Australia, Argentina and New Zealand next month.

Lancaster's side pulled off a shock 38-21 victory over world champions New Zealand in the 2012 autumn internationals, only their seventh win in 35 matches against the All Blacks.