England fly-half Fin Smith a doubt to face Australia after pulling out of training squad

England fly-half Fin Smith is a doubt for the autumn opener against Australia after withdrawing from training due to a calf issue. The Northampton Saints playmaker suffered the injury during Saturday's defeat to Leicester Tigers. While Smith will stay with Steve Borthwick's squad for medical treatment, Gloucester fly-half Charlie Atkinson has been called up as cover for the three-day training camp.

An update on the severity of Smith's injury is expected on Tuesday ahead of the clash on November 8 at Allianz Stadium. Should the first-choice fly-half be sidelined, veteran Sale Sharks playmaker George Ford will contend to deputise. Meanwhile, Harlequins' Marcus Smith remains another squad option, though Borthwick primarily views him as a full-back and versatile replacement.