By Sohaib Shams
England fly-half Fin Smith has recovered from a calf injury to start against Australia at Twickenham, while back-row forward Greg Fisilau is set for his Test debut from the bench.
England team changes
Smith came through training this week to claim the number 10 jersey. Full-back George Furbank returns for the first time since November 2024 after a series of injuries including a broken arm, concussion and emergency appendix surgery. Ben Curry starts at openside flanker with his twin brother Tom unavailable. Ollie Chessum continues at blindside flanker, while loosehead prop Fin Baxter makes his Test return from a complex foot injury. Captain Maro Itoje leads the side after being rested during the opening phase of the Nations Championship.
Australia spring selection surprise
Australia have moved lock Jeremy Williams to blindside flanker and preferred Declan Meredith over Ben Donaldson at fly-half. Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii remains on the wing, with Isaac Henry partnering Len Ikitau in the centres. Harry Wilson captains the Wallabies.
Coach reaction and upcoming fixtures
Head coach Steve Borthwick acknowledged the challenge posed by a Wallabies side that has played significant Test rugby recently. England also face Japan and New Zealand this November, with a potential Nations Championship finals weekend at Twickenham’s Allianz Stadium.
