Sam Burgess is ready to make his World Cup run-on debut this weekend against Wales, according to England backs coach Mike Catt.

The former NRL star was one of a number of reserves that made a big impact late in the second half in the host nations underwhelming 35-11 victory over Fiji.

Asked if the centre would be ready to start a World Cup match, Catt said:

“Yes. The guys have gone home for the last couple of days. We will see how they train (from Monday) and see how it goes… Sam has done his job. We know he is a big-game player and a great competitor and so are the other players around him.”

During his limited time on the field, Burgess was damaging with ball in hand, however it’s his defensive ability that may see him claim the No.12 jersey for Saturday’s clash against Wales.

“We need to make sure that defensively we are able to stop the big threats. It is all or bust for us and for Wales,” the former England utility back said. “They are going to throw absolutely everything at us and vice-versa.

“We are massively excited about this. It is what the World Cup is about. It’s the biggest game that a lot of the guys have ever played.”

Despite scoring two late tries to claim an all important bonus point, England were far from their best in the opening match of the tournament and could have been trailing midway through the second half, if Fiji had of capitalised on a number of penalty goal opportunities.

Heading into a crucial match against rivals Wales, Catt knows his side will need to be better.

“There are certain areas we need to work on,” Catt added.

“Certain individuals will be disappointed with their performances, but come Thursday, Friday, Saturday, there is a lot of experience now so that they can pull each other through.

“The crowd against Fiji were incredible. If we can have the same support against Wales, it will be massive for the team.”

The England team to play Wales will be announced on Thursday.