 Amor is looking for England to make a good start in Dubai |
England kick-off their IRB Sevens Series campaign in Dubai on 2-3 December before moving on to George in South Africa the following week. England's pool in Dubai contains France, Scotland and Uganda and coach Mike Friday expects a tough time in the Middle East.
"Our draw won't be easy as the French are an improving side," he said.
"And whenever we face one of England's traditional rivals such as Scotland the pressure to win is always on."
England, who are currently ranked second in the world behind New Zealand, won the George tournament last year and captain Simon Amor is hoping to repeat the feat this year.
"George is an even tougher draw than Dubai and we will want to travel to George feeling confident after Dubai," he said. "Our success in last year's tournament means we will be looking to retain our crown and despite New Zealand being the favourites everyone will be fired up to beat them."
Draw for Dubai Sevens:
Pool A:
New Zealand
Australia
Canada
Arabian Gulf
Pool B:
England
France
Scotland
Uganda
Pool C:
Argentina
Samoa
Kenya
Tunisia
Pool D:
South Africa
Fiji
Portugal
Ireland
Draw for George Sevens:
Pool A:
New Zealand
France
Portugal
Tunisia
Pool B:
England
Australia
Kenya
Ireland
Pool C:
Argentina
Fiji
Scotland
Arabian Gulf
Pool D:
South Africa
Samoa
Canada
Namibia