Cheika cuts some fat as England series looms

Cheika has named seven potential debutants in the squad for the first Test after a gruelling training camp on the Sunshine Coast in Queensland.

"We had a great week in Caloundra and the competition for spots has been intense during each of the sessions," Cheika said.

"All of the players in the broader squad will be picked at some point during the series and I know that any of them could step in if asked at anytime."

The announcement caps a whirlwind week for Rebels young gun Reece Hodge who was a late call-up as injury cover for Rebels teammate Mike Harris.

"Reece has really impressed me this week after being thrown into the deep end," Cheika said.

"It's not just about being in the environment for him now and I know he'll be pushing for selection in the match day 23."

The rejuvenated squad features 22 members of the Wallabies' 2015 Rugby World Cup squad while former Wallabies captain James Horwill (Harlequins, England) is the only overseas based selection after the Waratahs announced the signing of veteran prop Sekope Kepu.

Kepu was granted a release from the final two years of his deal with French club Bordeaux and will now link with the Wallabies immediately after he touches down in Australia.

"I really enjoyed my time in France, while experiencing a new rugby culture with my family," Kepu said.

"The opportunity to come home and reconnect with the Wallabies and play Super Rugby is an honour for me, and I am looking forward to joining the boys and working hard to earn a spot in the team against England during the series."

Australia: Alan Alaalatoa (Brumbies), Rory Arnold (Brumbies), Sam Carter (Brumbies), Scott Fardy (Brumbies), Israel Folau (Waratahs), Bernard Foley (Waratahs), Nick Frisby (Reds), Dane Haylett-Petty (Force), Reece Hodge (Rebels), Greg Holmes (Reds), Michael Hooper (Waratahs), Rob Horne (Waratahs), James Horwill (Harlequins), Karmichael Hunt (Reds), Sekope Kepu (Waratahs), Samu Kerevi (Reds), Tevita Kuridrani (Brumbies), Christian Lealiifano (Brumbies), Ben McCalman (Force), Sean McMahon (Rebels), Stephen Moore (Brumbies), Luke Morahan (Force), Dean Mumm (Waratahs), Taqele Naiyaravoro (Waratahs), Wycliff Palu (Waratahs), Nick Phipps (Waratahs), David Pocock (Brumbies), Tatafu Polota-Nau (Waratahs), Rob Simmons (Reds), Scott Sio (Brumbies), Will Skelton (Waratahs), James Slipper (Reds), Toby Smith (Rebels).

Australia v England:

Date: Saturday, June 11

Venue: Suncorp Stadium, Brisbane

Kick-off: 20.00 (10.00 GMT; 11.00 UK time)

Referee: TBC