Sam Burgess

On that occasion, Burgess was taken off after 31 minutes, passed his HIA check and started the second half in a tight 24-18 win.

On Thursday, Burgess reeled out of a collision with Roosters back-rower Isaac Liu in which the Rabbitohs lock – while attempting to tackle Liu – collected the Rooster's shoulder on his jaw.

The 27-year-old South Sydney forward will return to the England team - following a three-year absence - as captain for the Four Nations Series and says he will be better for his experience in the 15-man game.

In his first game of rugby league since the 2014 Grand Final Burgess was the focal point – whether he liked it or not – in a pre-season trial that saw the Rabbitohs hold off a gallant Titans team 22-20 in Burleigh on Saturday night.

He played 60 minutes, scored a try, hit hard and passed more before the line than perhaps ever before in his career in the 13-man game and most importantly got through with burning lungs as his only injury concern.

Dressed in a bespoke suit designed by Giorgio Armani, Burgess was joined at the alter by his groomsmen - footballer brothers Luke, Thomas and George, and close friend Chris Feather.

The bride, wearing an Alex Perry gown, was led down the aisle by her bridesmaids - sisters Jemima and Harriett, best friend Phoebe White and sister-in-law Yolanda Hodgson, also dressed in Perry.

The Rabbitohs announced the news on Sunday along with the news of contract extensions for young players Angus Crichton and Hymel Hunt.

Former Australian Schoolboys representative Crichton, 19, will join the Rabbitohs' full-time squad next season and has signed a deal keeping him at the club until 2018.

Outside back Hunt, 22, joins Souths from Melbourne on a one-year deal.

"We're pleased to be adding Hymel to our squad and to be extending the contract of young Angus as well," Rabbitohs coach Michael Maguire said.

Coach Stuart Lancaster has made nine changes after the 33-13 defeat by Australia which knocked his side out.

Alex Goode, Jack Nowell, Henry Slade, George Ford and Danny Care all come into the back line, with Owen Farrell switching to inside centre.

Mako Vunipola, James Haskell and Nick Easter come into the pack, with Chris Robshaw continuing to lead the side.

Centre Brad Barritt, who started against Australia, is not available because of an arm injury, while lock Courtney Lawes has not recovered from the knee injury he suffered against Wales.