Eddie Jones takes his England side down under to face the Wallabies this summer for a three test series
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England's rugby union team will be hoping to put memories of a difficult Six Nations behind them as they travel to Australia for a three Test series this summer.
Eddie Jones' side finished fifth in the Six Nations in a disappointing showing from his side as they build up to the 2023 World Cup in France. However, they were without the talismanic Owen Farrell for the entire competition and fans will be excited to see the Wigan born man alongside Marcus Smith this summer.
The only match the pair have played together in an England shirt was in November against Dave Rennie's Australia side, where the Red Rose won 32-15 in a brilliant performance at Twickenham. Farrell has been named at inside-centre for this test with Smith inside him at fly-half and it will be intriguing to see how the partnership develops.
Courtney Lawes holds on to the captaincy after his efforts in the Six Nations and starts at blindside flanker, with Billy Vunipola back in at Number 8 and Tom Curry on the openside. There are potential debutants on the bench with Guy Porter, Jack van Poortvliet and exciting teenager Henry Arundell all named as 'finishers'.
Danny Care makes the test side for the first time since 2018 and will be hoping that the form he's shown for Harlequins in recent years can be replicated once more on the international stage. Another returning player is Mako Vunipola, with the Saracens loosehead back into the squad from the bench.
One area where England struggled in the Six Nations was on the wings in the absence of Anthony Watson and Jonny May, Jones has opted for a heavyweight backline with Joe Cokanasiga and Jack Nowell occupying wide areas with Leicester's Freddie Steward at full-back.
Jones spoke to the England rugby website on his team selection, explaining his choices: "We have had very strong preparation for this game. We did some good recovery work in Fremantle and quality training in Perth," said Jones. "The squad has come together well since we met up last week.
"Picking the 23 out of this group of 36 was difficult. We feel we have a well-balanced team which is ready for this improving Australia team. We’ll take it to them from the start."
Here are all the details you need to watch the match.
Saturday 2 July - Optus Stadium, Perth - KO 11am BST