Fin Smith cleared to start for England against Australia as Greg Fisilau earns debut

Fin Smith has been cleared to start at fly half for England against Australia despite a calf injury, with Greg Fisilau set to make his Test debut from the bench. George Furbank returns at full-back for the first time since November 2024. Ben Curry starts at openside after twin brother Tom was ruled out, while Fin Baxter returns from a long-term foot injury. Maro Itoje captains the side after being rested earlier in the Nations Championship. Australia have shifted Jeremy Williams to blindside flank and picked Declan Meredith at fly half. England face Japan and New Zealand later this November, plus an unconfirmed opponent in the Nations Championship finals weekend. Coach Steve Borthwick called Australia a talented side and noted this is England's last home match against southern hemisphere opposition before next year's World Cup.