Maro Itoje has been named in England's first squad since the summer tour, marking a significant return for the captain. However, Courtney Lawes and Joe Marchant must first prove themselves with Sale Sharks before being recalled to the national team.

Itoje, who was rested for the Nations Championship matches against South Africa, Fiji, and Argentina, is part of a 36-man squad preparing for the autumn campaign with a three-day camp starting this Sunday. He is expected to lead the team against Australia at Allianz Stadium on November 8, taking over the captaincy from Jamie George.

Both Lawes and Marchant, who have recently returned from their respective French clubs, Brive and Stade Francais, are under the watchful eye of head coach Steve Borthwick. Their England careers were temporarily on hold due to their overseas moves, and Borthwick wants to assess their readiness before including them in future squads. Lawes, in particular, brings valuable experience and leadership that the squad needs.

In addition, Fin Baxter makes his comeback after a series of foot injuries, while promising rookies Archie McParland and Kepueli Tuipulotu are also included. McParland, who was set to tour in the summer, missed out due to a leg injury sustained in the Prem Final.

Key players Alex Mitchell and Ben Spencer are currently sidelined, giving McParland an opportunity to impress. Notable absentees include Max Ojomoh and Noah Clauori, while Tom Roebuck's club commitments prevent his involvement.

The England training squad includes:

• Forwards: Fin Baxter, Arthur Clark, Alex Coles, among others.
• Backs: Seb Atkinson, Elliot Daly, George Ford, and more.

England's first match in the Nations Championship is against Australia on November 8, followed by fixtures against Japan and New Zealand.