Dallaglio expects England to be strong Down Under

A third of the 30-man squad that won the World Cup in Sydney last November are set to miss the trip.

"Already there are a few guys who are injured and more seem to be dropping out by the second, but we expect to take a strong side," said Dallaglio.

England face New Zealand twice and Australia once in a Cup final re-match.

England will leave without a host of first team players.

They look likely to be without Jonny Wilkinson, who has not played this season because of his damaged shoulder.

Martin Johnson, Jason Leonard, Neil Back and Dorian West have all retired from the international arena.

Coach Sir Clive Woodward also has a lengthy list of injury absentees, among them flanker Lewis Moody (foot) and prop Phil Vickery, who requires back surgery.