Fly-half Fin Smith has recovered from a calf damage and can begin for England of their opening Check of the autumn in opposition to Australia on Sunday.
Smith has began England’s previous 5 matches at 10, however was a doubt to face the Wallabies within the Nations Championship encounter after coming off late on in Northampton’s defeat by Leicester on 24 October.
The 24-year-old is joined within the England XV by flanker Ben Curry, who makes his Check return after an injury-hit 16 months.
Curry, whose twin brother Tom had an damage setback in coaching earlier this week that took him out of rivalry, is seen as key to combating Australia’s breakdown specialists Fraser McReight and Carlo Tizzano and guaranteeing a provide of fast ball to Smith and his backline.
Smith may have Saints team-mate Tommy Freeman as an attacking outlet and a goal for crossfield kicks on the wing, whereas full-back George Furbank, who can step in at first receiver, performed alongside each earlier than his summer season transfer to Harlequins.
Alex Coles, one other Northampton participant, wins a beginning second-row spot forward of George Martin, whereas Henry Slade is chosen at exterior centre, with no area for both Joe Marchant or Will Joseph within the matchday 23.
Fin Baxter, who solely made two appearances since a comeback from a 10-month foot-injury lay-off, is the beginning loose-head prop, with Ellis Genge poised on the bench alongside Will Stuart, one other welcome front-row returnee.
