Itoje returns and Fin Smith fit for England’s Australia test

Maro Itoje will return as England captain and Fin Smith has been passed fit for Sunday’s test against Australia at Twickenham. Coach Steve Borthwick has made four changes to the side that last played in Argentina in July, as England begin the home phase of their Nations Championship campaign.

Itoje replaces George Martin, while Fin Baxter starts ahead of Ellis Genge and George Furbank comes in at fullback for Marcus Smith. Ben Curry returns at flanker for his first cap in 16 months after his twin Tom was injured in training; Henry Pollock is again among the replacements. Uncapped Exeter number eight Greg Fisilau is also on the bench, with Borthwick naming six forwards and two backs among the replacements.