Geraghty ready for England start

Geraghty has scored 86 points in eight games since his move to Saints

Northampton Saints' Shane Geraghty says he is ready to perform for England after being named in the starting XV to face Australia at Twickenham.

Geraghty has three caps as substitute but his club form this season has won over England boss Martin Johnson.

"There have been a couple of injuries but the coaches say I've deserved the chance so I'll be all guns blazing on Saturday," Geraghty told the BBC.

"This is the most prepared I've ever been leading up to an England game."

The Saints fly-half will play at inside centre in a new-look England back division and the 23-year-old is relishing the chance to play alongside a rejuvenated Jonny Wilkinson.

"It's a good blend of youth and experience. Jonny has been my hero ever since I decided I wanted to play in the backs so to play with him is a dream come true," Geraghty added.

Northampton have helped me a great deal. It's a fantastic club.

Shane Geraghty

"I know Danny Care well from England Under-19s and 20s, and Dan Hipkiss is a great player. I'll have good people either side of me on Saturday."

Geraghty is the only Northampton player to start the match, with hooker Dylan Hartley and second row Courtney Lawes on the bench, while full-back has been Ben Foden released to his club to face Ospreys.

The former London Irish man has impressed for the east Midlands club since his arrival in the summer.

"Northampton have helped me a great deal. It's a fantastic club. Jim Mallinder, Dorian West and all coaches have been fantastic. I'm loving it there."