David Klemmer is bracing for a full-scale battle with the English pack on Friday night when Australia open their World Cup campaign at AAMI Park.
The Kangaroos prop is one of Australia's enforcers but is wary of the likes of Sam Burgess and his colleagues producing a dominant performance.
"We know England is going to come out – they want to win," he said.
"They are a competitive side and very passionate. Obviously they are going to come here and try and knock us off.
"Across the park in that forward pack, they're world class. They are a tough, passionate side.
"As a forward group, we've just got to come together and get to training and really prepare well for them, because we're going to have our hands full. It's going to be very interesting and good as well. It's a good match-up against us first."
Klemmer made his Test debut against the English in the 2014 Four Nations clash at Friday night's venue. He still remembers it with some fondness – but also the physicality.
"I remember my first game; it was very hard," he said.
"Every time you verse England it's a hard encounter. I can't wait to get out there and test yourself against a tough quality pack. I'm excited."
Klemmer knows he needs to nullify his former Bulldogs skipper James Graham's impact too.
"I love playing with him and pretty disappointed he left the club," he said.
"Every time I watched him play for England, he's pretty close to man of the match. He represents that jersey with passion and pride, like he does with every jersey. It's always good to go up against him. My first Test was against him.
"He's a fiery man. It's good for the game as well. For his team mates, to see him to that, it lifts them as well. We know what we're in for."
