Australia head coach Robbie Deans has confirmed that he has recalled experienced flanker George Smith to face the British and Irish Lions on Saturday.

The 32-year-old, who hasn't appeared for the Wallabies for three years, has impressed since returning to Brumbies from his loan spell at Japanese side Suntory.

Smith, who played against the Lions during the 2001 tour, goes straight into the starting XV in place of Michael Hooper in what is the only change.

Kurtley Beale and James O'Connor retain their places at full-back and fly-half respectively, while cleared captain James Horwill also starts for the men in gold.

Australia XV: 15 Kurtley Beale, 14 Israel Folau, 13 Adam Ashley-Cooper, 12 Christian Lealiifano, 11 Joe Tomane, 10 James O'Connor, 9 Will Genia, 1 Benn Robinson, 2 Stephen Moore, 3 Ben Alexander, 4 James Horwill, 5 Kane Douglas, 6 Ben Mowen, 7 George Smith, 8 Wycliff Palu

Replacements: 16 Saia Faingaa, 17 James Slippper, 18 Sekope Kepu, 19 Rob Simmons, 20 Ben McCalman, 21 Michael Hooper, 22 Nick Phipps, 23 Jesse Mogg