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The Rugby Union heavyweight contest between England and Australia, appears to be all about the return of hero Jonny Wilkinson. The match at Twickenham on Saturday, starts the series of Autumn Internationals for the home nation. England v Australia usually produces a classic encounter, with all of the players up for the task of taking on their bitter rivals. The Aussies have generally had the upper hand when it comes to the big scrum down, but England have pulled out the wins when it has mattered most. They triumphed in the unforgettable 2003 Rugby World Cup Final, and again at the 2007 World Cup semi quarter final stage. There is hardly a better sight in sport than watching the English pack demolish that of the Green and Gold.

For England v Australia betting advice ahead of Saturday’s game, Australia, despite having a couple of injury problems themselves, should be the stronger of the two nations. This is almost a back to square one mission for England manager Martin Johnson, as he looks to reshape English Rugby from the ground up. There is no better place to start than against one of the best teams in the world. England have been ravaged by injury problems, with up to eight probable starters falling victim to one problem or another. This has paved the way for youngsters to step up and show what they are made of, and put pressure on the more established senior players. This is the enthusiasm that Johnson will be looking for in the test, and they will need to settle quickly and learn to trust each other’s abilities.

The calming presence of Wilkinson is vital. He has beaten Australia the past six times he has actually been fit enough to play. The Aussies most vulnerable spot will come at centre, as Stirling Mortlock and Berrick Barnes, the regular pairing, are both missing. Australia will have Matt Giteau playing though, and that’s enough creativity to keep the England backs on the toes, especially full back Ugo Moyne who will be playing out of position there on Saturday. Last year’s Autumn Internationals were a tale of woe for the English, suffering heavy defeats in all three tests against the Tri Nations sides of Australia, South Africa and New Zealand.

Australia have a good record against England, but this is Twickenham, and it should be a riotous affair. England need to gel quickly and keep good control in the forwards, and build from there. One problem for England in the disappointing six nations earlier this year, was lack of quick ball from the breakdowns, and any creativity whatsoever. Martin Johnson believes that squad is in great mood, and are much better than at the beginning of the year. A good contest for England would be keeping the score to within 5 points, and is a good bet to look for. Australia to win by 1-5 points will fetch 5-1 at Coral

Here are the match prices and interesting bets:

England to win: 15/8 at SportingBet
Draw: 22/1 at ExtraBet
Australia to win: 4/7 at Paddy Power

Australia to win by 1-12 points: 7/4 at Bet365
England to win by 1-10 points: 3/1 at Ladbrokes

Johnny Wilkinson: 17 points or more 13/8 at SkyBet

AUTUM INTERNATIONALS
England v Australia: November 7
England v Argentina: November 14
England v New Zealand: November 21

How Many Games Will England win:
None: 11/2 at Ladbrokes
Exactly 1: 6/4 at Ladbrokes
Exactly 2: 11/8 at Paddy Power
Exactly 3: 12/1 at Paddy Power