Jamie George to step in for Owen Farrell and captain England in the Six Nations
England's Six Nations captain Jamie George
Jamie George has been named England's captain for the Six Nations as England prepare for life without Owen Farrell in the tournament.
George's Saracens team-mate Farrell announced that he would be taking a break from international rugby and as a result head coach Steve Borthwick needed to find a stand-in captain.
Borthwick has picked George, who has represented his country 85 times and was a key part of England's run to the World Cup semi-finals in France.
George's selection as captain was among many notable calls made by Borthwick in his squad, including the notable absence of experienced pair, Billy Vunipola and Kyle Sinckler.
Meanwhile, seven uncapped players have been called upon, including Northampton Saints' Fin Smith.
“Last week Steve asked me to be captain for the upcoming Six Nations and I accepted with huge gratitude and enthusiasm,” George said.
“I love playing rugby for England. I hope that everyone has seen how much it means to me, I have never shied away from that.
“I am so excited about where this team can go and bringing the fans on that journey with us is something that I care about deeply.
“I believe I’m at the stage of my career where I can give my all to the captaincy and give my best on the pitch.
“I don’t underestimate the challenge ahead. Owen is a fantastic motivator and tactician, and we will undoubtedly miss his leadership.
“But I have got brilliant people around me, many of whom have won major tournaments, and utilising the great experience we have within the group is going to be crucial.”
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Borthwick has undertaken a significant revamp of his squad with only 17 survivors present from the 34 players used at last autumn’s World Cup, which England finished in third place.
Wings Immanuel Feyi-Waboso, Oscar Beard and Tom Roebuck, back rows Chandler Cunningham-South and Ethan Roots, centre Fraser Dingwall and fly-half Smith are the uncapped players, while World Cup squad absentees Henry Slade and Luke Cowan-Dickie are recalled.
“Building on the foundations of what we achieved at the Rugby World Cup, I have selected a squad that provides strong continuity and experience, whilst at the same time providing an opportunity to develop the talent of a number of new and less-experienced players,” Borthwick said.
“I would particularly like to congratulate the new faces who have their first chance and very much look forward to seeing how that young talent can play an important part in ensuring that England continue to develop our game and move forward.”
England open their Six Nations against Italy in Rome on February 3 and you can place a bet on the tournament with Sportsbooks Ontario.
