The experienced flanker missed the 70-0 romp against Canada because of a leg injury, but has been called up to the back-row at the expense of Gloucester's Andy Hazell, who drops to the bench with Leicester's Lewis Moody switching to openside.

Worsley's return was widely expected to be the sole change of personnel, and so it has proved.

The World Cup winner has won 37 caps, and his recent club form suggests that England will be strengthened considerably by him regaining full fitness.

Hazell, although among the replacements, can realistically expect to make an appearance at some stage, especially given the game's likely fierce physical nature.

Harry Ellis, who would probably have started against Canada had he been fit, takes over from Newcastle scrum-half Hall Charlton on the bench.

Centre Will Greenwood, meanwhile, has also been named as a substitute, despite taking a knock during the Canadian clash while full-back Jason Robinson will remian as captain in the continued absence of injured fly-half Jonny Wilkinson.

"I think it is right to keep faith with a largely unchanged side this week,'' said England's head coach Andy Robinson.

"We had a solid win over Canada, and now we expect South Africa to offer very tough opposition.

"I welcome Joe back into the starting XV, and Harry on the bench, and after an inspirational performance last Saturday, I am happy to confirm Jason Robinson will again captain the side in Jonny Wilkinson's absence.''

England team: J Robinson (Sale Sharks, capt); M Cueto (Sale Sharks), H Paul (Gloucester), M Tindall (Bath), J Lewsey (Wasps); C Hodgson (Sale Sharks), A Gomarsall (Gloucester); G Rowntree (Leicester), S Thompson (Northampton), J White (Leicester), D Grewcock (Bath), S Borthwick (Bath), J Worsley (Wasps), L Moody (Leicester), M Corry (Leicester).
Replacements: A Titterell (Sale Sharks), A Sheridan (Sale Sharks), B Kay (Leicester), A Hazell (Gloucester), H Ellis (Leicester), W Greenwood (Harlequins), B Cohen (Northampton).