Fisilau on bench for England debut

Exeter Chiefs back-rower Greg Fisilau is in line to make his England debut from the bench against Australia on Sunday afternoon.

Fisilau joins Chiefs teammates Henry Slade and Immanuel Feyi-Waboso in his first England match squad. The 23-year-old forward is included on the 6-2 split bench.

Head coach Steve Borthwick said of Fisilau: “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.”

In the starting line-up, Slade links up with Gloucester Rugby’s Seb Atkinson in the centre while Feyi-Waboso runs out on the left wing.

Saracens’ Maro Itoje captains the side which includes returns for props Fin Baxter and Will Stuart, back-rower Ben Curry, and full-back George Furbank.

Borthwick added: “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.

“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.”

The game, which kicks off at 15:10 on Sunday in London at the Allianz Stadium, will be broadcast live on ITV.