Catt has won 65 England caps

The 34-year-old centre has been recalled after two years in the international wilderness for the two-Test trip Down Under.

"It's a very exciting time for England with new coaches and young players coming through," he said.

"They want to bring on youngsters and it's vital to have experienced heads around to do that."

The 30-strong party includes six uncapped players - Scott Bemand, Peter Richards, Nick Walshe, Alex Brown, Magnus Lund and George Chuter.

England recall for veteran Catt

And promising youngsters Mathew Tait and Tom Varndell have each made just one appearance.

Catt admits he owes his recall to the form shown this season by London Irish.

The Exiles played some dazzling rugby on their way to the Guinness Premiership play-offs, where they lost to Leicester, and Catt was full of praise for boss Brian Smith and skills coach Tony Stanger.

"We've surprised a lot of people with the way we play," said Catt, who has won 65 England caps.

"We play to my strengths and that suits me down to the ground. I'm very excited every time I play and I've stayed injury-free.

"When you're winning on a week-by-week basis it is easy to want to develop as a player.