Smith and Furbank start for England

November 06, 2026
216
Ultimate Rugby

England men’s head coach Steve Borthwick has named his team to face Australia for the Ella-Mobbs Cup on Sunday 8 November at Allianz Stadium, Twickenham (kick-off 3.10pm GMT).

Maro Itoje is back to captain the side, having not featured in England’s summer campaign, with Fin Baxter, Ben Curry and George Furbank all returning to the starting XV after injury-enforced absences.

Uncapped Exeter Chiefs back-row forward Greg Fisilau is named among the replacements with England opting for a 6-2 split on the bench. He is joined by Will Stuart, who also returns to the England matchday squad after a lengthy period of rehabilitation.

The Round 4 fixture of the inaugural Nations Championship sees England begin a run of four consecutive matches at Allianz Stadium.

“Australia are a talented side who have played a significant amount of Test rugby in recent months. We know the challenge that awaits us and we’re looking forward to it,” said Borthwick.

“We’re excited to be playing in front of our home supporters and to start an important block of games. This will also be our last opportunity to face southern hemisphere opposition at home before the World Cup next year.”

On Fisilau’s potential England debut, Borthwick added:

“We're all absolutely delighted for Greg. He's worked incredibly hard to get to this point and has earned his opportunity through the way he's performed for Exeter and in our training environment. He's a powerful, athletic player who brings real energy to the team.”

Following the Australia fixture, England will face Japan and New Zealand at Allianz Stadium in Rounds 5 and 6, before Finals Weekend from Friday 27 to Sunday 29 November.

ENGLAND v AUSTRALIA

Sunday 8 November 2026

Allianz Stadium, Twickenham

Kick-off: 3.10pm GMT

15. George Furbank (Harlequins, 14 caps)

14. Tommy Freeman (Northampton Saints, 30 caps)

13. Henry Slade (Exeter Chiefs, 77 caps)

12. Seb Atkinson (Gloucester Rugby, 7 caps)

11. Immanuel Feyi-Waboso (Exeter Chiefs, 16 caps)

10. Fin Smith (Northampton Saints, 19 caps)

9. Jack van Poortvliet (Leicester Tigers, 27 caps)

1. Fin Baxter (Harlequins, 18 caps)