England are likely to have No 8 Billy Vunipola back to full fitness for their World Cup quarter-final against Australia in Oita on Saturday.

In a major boost for Eddie Jones’ side, Vunipola is on track to recover from the ankle injury that forced him off at half time in the victory over Argentina.

England will name their team to face the Wallabies on Thursday and Vunipola will be an automatic selection to start his 13th consecutive Test this year.

‘Billy is progressing really well,’ England assistant coach John Mitchell said. ‘He has trained again today and we are very confident in his progression each day. He’s very likely [to play].

‘Billy is a very important player to us and a very likeable player as well. He fits well within the team.

‘He loves the ball in his hand. He is very good at regaining and retaining momentum. He likes carrying the ball which is where he has his greatest influence.’

While the update on the powerful Saracens loose forward was positive, it appears likely that wing Jack Nowell will miss the game due a hamstring injury that has prevented him from taking part in training.

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