Coming into the series, England were ranked in fifth place in the World Rugby Rankings, while Australia sat one place below in sixth.[2] The two nations had most recently contested a test series in 2016, which England won for the first time, with a historic 3–0 "whitewash" on Australian soil.[3]
The 2016 series marked the start of England's eight-match winning streak against Australia, whose most recent victory in the fixture was in the 2015 Rugby World Cup pool stage. However, the first test of the 2022 tour on 2 July ended that streak, as Australia claimed a 30–28 victory in Perth. The following week, on 9 July, England leveled the series with a 25–17 win in Brisbane.[4] In the deciding test on 16 July, England clinched the series, triumphing over Australia by 21–17 in Sydney.[5]
Quade Cooper (Australia) had been named in the starting line-up, but pulled up injured in the warm-up. He was substituted by Noah Lolesio, who in turn was replaced on the bench by James O'Connor.
Jack Willis (England) was originally named among the substitutes, but pulled out prior to the match due to a rib injury. He was replaced on the bench by Will Joseph.