England to do battle with Australia in historic three-Test series after Rugby World Cup exploits

England v Australia — England prevailed 26-17 at Twickenham in their last meeting before the World Cup in November Getty Images

England will face Australia in the pair's first ever three-Test series less than a year on from the World Cup, the Rugby Football Union has confirmed.

Nine months on from their potentially decisive Pool A clash at the Rugby World Cup, England and Australia will do battle Down Under for the Cook Cup in a landmark series for the two nations.

It means following a summer-long training camp ahead of the World Cup and then the subsequent domestic season, the significant physical demands on England's players will continue come 2016.

"A Test series in Australia is a massive challenge and one to really look forward to," England head coach Stuart Lancaster said.

"We all saw the excitement generated by the three Tests on the British and Irish Lions tour. We haven't toured Australia since 2010 so for most of our squad it will be their first opportunity to play a senior Test there and I'm sure it will be a great series."

Australia coach Michael Cheika added: "There is no question England are our greatest rivals from the north and this is guaranteed to be a really hard-fought and physical series.

"It will be a great opportunity for the players to be involved in an historic series but it also gives our fans plenty to look forward to next season."