Fin Smith will steer England through their crucial autumn opener against Australia on Sunday after completing his recovery from a calf problem.

Smith starts at fly-half after coming through Friday’s final training session of the week in a major boost for Steve Borthwick’s side entering the first of their four Tests at Allianz Stadium this month.

Borthwick has made four changes to the XV that defeated Argentina 31-24 in July, with George Furbank returning at full-back having been ruled out against the Pumas because of appendicitis.

It will be Furbank’s first England appearance for two years following a savage run of injuries, including a broken arm, concussion and calf issue.

The Harlequins playmaker was included in the starting XV named against South Africa in July but was forced to withdraw because of the appendicitis that ended his tour without playing a minute.