England scrumhalf Matt Dawson will not be considered for Saturday's international against Australia at Twickenham, coach Clive Woodward said today.
Dawson has not played since sustaining a hamstring injury during the 20-14 loss to Ireland a fortnight ago.
"Matt hasn't yet recaptured the great form he showed in the first four games of the Six Nations last year and with Kyran Bracken and Austin Healey already in the squad we have cover in the scrumhalf position," Woodward said.
Woodward also said New Zealand-born rugby league convert Henry Paul would not be selected for any of England's three internationals this year.
"His involvement in the squad is to advance his learning in agreement with his club Gloucester, who he will return to play for this weekend," Woodward said.
Dawson later revealed that he had been informed by Woodward that his services were not required last night, and accepts that he is unlikely to earn a recall during the impending series of games.
"It's fair enough as I haven't played for three weeks," the Northampton player told bbc.co.uk.
"That's what selectors are there to do."
"I'm out of the squad for the moment and I'll keep playing for Northampton until they want me again.
"I can't say it's likely to be for only one game but I'll get back whenever."