Hape was due to win his first cap in the RBS 6 Nations clash with Wales only to fall ill the day before the game.

He has been patient for his chance but now he’s got it he intends to make the most of the opportunity.

“I’m really looking forward to the game – it’s a great feeling for myself, my family and my friends in England,” said the 29-year-old.

“Being picked for England is a huge honour particularly against a world class team like Australia.

“And it’s great that I’m linking up with Mike (Tindall) – he has been there and done that, having played so many Tests and won a World Cup for England.”

Fly-half Toby Flood has edged out Jonny Wilkinson while there are starts for hooker Steve Thompson and lock Tom Palmer.

And Harlequins scrum-half Danny Care has withstood a late surge from Ben Youngs to start, with the Leicester starlet having to make do with a place on the bench.

Australia have a host of players out with Matt Giteau the latest big name to drop out and his place at inside centre has been taken by Berrick Barnes.

The Wallabies also have their most inexperience front row in 27 years but captain Rocky Elsom is backing his side to produce the goods.

“Having the injuries isn’t ideal ideal but the way we train and practice it's very much a squad focus so guys can slot in and out,” said Elsom.

England: Ben Foden, Mark Cueto, Mike Tindall, Shontayne Hape, Chris Ashton, Toby Flood, Danny Care, Tim Payne, Steve Thompson, Dan Cole, Simon Shaw, Tom Palmer, Tom Croft, Lewis Moody, Nick Easter.
Replacements: George Chuter, David Wilson, Courtney Lawes, J Haskell, Ben Youngs, Jonny Wilkinson, Mathew Tait.

Australia team: James O'Connor, Digby Ioane, Rob Horne, Berrick Barnes, Drew Mitchell, Quade Cooper, Luke Burgess, Ben Daley, Saia Faingaa, Salesi Ma'afu, Dean Mumm, Nathan Sharpe, Rocky Elsom, David Pocock, Richard Brown.
Replacements: Huia Edmonds, James Slipper, Mark Chisholm, Matt Hodgson, Will Genia, Kurtley Beale.