Australia receive David Pocock boost ahead of Twickenham battle against England

Australia have received much needed boost ahead of their Twickenham clash against England with David Pocock declared fit.

Pocock has been recovering from a neck injury that he sustained during the game against Italy and was able to take part in non-contact work during training on Tuesday casting major doubt over his participation for Saturday's game.

Nevertheless, the 30-year-old showed active participation in the full-training session that prompted Michael Cheika to include him in the starting line-up, though he will still be monitored ahead of the game.

However, Cheika has opted to drop out Kurtley Beale for the first time this year as Israel Folau retains his full-back position despite the return of Dane Haylett-Petty. Matt Toomua's impressive show against Italy means he has retained the number 10 spot with Bernard Foley at 12.

Will Genia, who came off the bench and scored the final try in the game against Italy will start at scrum-half and will become the 10th Australian player to feature in 100 Tests for the Wallabies when he takes the field in front of a packed Twickenham crowd on Saturday.

Australia line-up: Israel Folau, Dane Haylett-Petty, Samu Kerevi, Bernard Foley, Jack Maddocks, Matt Toomua; Scott Sio, Tolu Latu, Sekope Kepu, Izack Rodda, Adam Coleman, Jack Dempsey, Michael Hooper (c), David Pocock.

Replacements: Tatafu Polota-Nau, Jermaine Ainsley, Allan Alaalatoa, Rob Simmons, Ned Hanigan, Pete Samu, Nick Phipps, Sefa Naivalu.