Yes, Andy talks a good game but what is he doing in the team?

The decision has confused me. As someone who was reinstated 21 times during my England career, I know that it normally happens for a reason, and that reason is normally good form.

Scroll down to read more:

But what has Farrell done to prove he deserves a recall since the defeat to South Africa?

He came on against a tiring Tonga side and scored a run-in try, which seems to have been enough evidence to convince the selectors that they should pick him again.

The explanation was that Farrell poses a threat going forward but I'm not convinced that he has done that on a regular basis.

The potential is there but we haven't seen enough of his ability to off-load in the contact area and create spaces for the strike runners around him.

These are the traits he was known for in rugby league and now we need to see them flourish in union.

Farrell is renowned as a great communicator, but his ability to communicate is not going to win England the match against Australia.

Having said that, there was a collective reaction from the other players when he scored against Tonga, which is a positive sign that they like his presence on the field.

I'm sure the Aussies will be thinking that his lack of experience in union can be targeted.

They are the leading side in the world when it comes to analysing opposition players so Andy's decision-making when the heat is on needs to be flawless.

After facing Ireland at Croke Park and South Africa in Paris he now knows just what is required in a high-intensity Test match.

But he doesn't have the experience of playing against clever opponents like George Gregan, Stirling Mortlock and Matt Giteau who are totally proven at this level.

Those guys will be quick to exploit any weaknesses or hesitancy.

Farrell has a wealth of knowledge and technical expertise when it comes to defence but with Mathew Tait outside him there will be plenty to do as Australia will attack that channel with their stronger ball-carriers.

Despite all my reservations, I am desperate for him to prove me — and all the other people who doubt him - wrong, because I want England to win.

The jury is out on Andy Farrell, but Brian Ashton obviously has faith in him.

Only time will tell whether this is a master-stroke or a fatal, bad decision.