Hartley named as England’s Six Nations skipper

 

Controversial Northampton Saints hooker Dylan Hartley has been named as the new England captain for next month’s Six Nations.

The 29 year old New Zealand born hooker has been banned for a total of 54 weeks for offences, including gouging, biting and striking.

But when not banned, Hartley has been influential for both club and country. He became the Saints captain in 2009, becoming the Premiership’s youngest skipper at just 23 years old.

Having made 66 international caps, he replaces former captain of four years Chris Robshaw, who came under scrutiny following England’s poor display in last summer’s World Cup.

Hartley, who missed the tournament through suspension, thought his England career may have been over, but the Saints man said it was a “huge honour” to be named England captain.

He added: “I’m really excited about the challenge ahead but, in reality, leading this squad of players will not fall just to me.

“There are a number of guys in this squad who will all have important leadership roles to play so we can take this team forward.”

Speaking on the decision to appoint Hartley as his new skipper, new England boss Eddie Jones said; “Dylan is an honest, hard-working bloke and I admire his aggressive and uncompromising approach to playing rugby.”

Jones, who replaced Stuart Lancaster after England’s World Cup disappointment, added: “I have every faith he will lead the team tactically and passionately. English rugby is indebted to Northampton to have produced such a fine player.”

England begin their Six Nations campaign in Scotland on 6 February.