Fly-half Fin Smith has been cleared to start for England in their autumn rugby union opener against Australia after successfully completing a final fitness assessment. The 24-year-old has started the team's last five consecutive matches, solidifying his role as the primary playmaker.
Head coach Steve Borthwick has confirmed four changes to the side that defeated Argentina in July. Maro Itoje returns to captain the team in the second row, while Fin Baxter is named at loosehead prop and George Furbank takes the fullback position.
The squad selection was impacted by an injury to Tom Curry, who sustained a training ground issue on Wednesday. Concerns have been raised that the flanker may miss the remainder of the autumn campaign, with his twin brother Ben Curry stepping into the openside flanker role.
George Furbank returns to the international stage for the first time in two years, having previously been sidelined by appendicitis ahead of a scheduled summer appearance against South Africa. Meanwhile, Exeter back-row Greg Fisilau is set to potentially make his debut from the bench.
The bench features a 6-2 split, with Ellis Genge returning to the matchday squad following a long-term foot injury. Genge joins Luke Cowan-Dickie and Will Stuart as front-row replacements, while Jack van Poortvliet starts at scrum-half in the absence of the injured Alex Mitchell.
England's starting pack includes Baxter, Jamie George, and Joe Heyes in the front row, with Itoje and Alex Coles in the second row. Ollie Chessum, Ben Earl, and Ben Curry complete the back row, while Seb Atkinson and Henry Slade continue their centre partnership.
The replacements also include Marcus Smith and Ben Spencer, alongside Henry Pollock, who provides cover for the back row and wing positions. The team looks to build on their recent form as they begin their Nations Championship schedule.
Join the conversation