George leads England
LONDON - Saracens hooker Jamie George was named as the new England captain on Wednesday as coach Steve Borthwick included seven uncapped players in his 36-man squad for the Six Nations championship, which begins for his team on February 3 away to Italy.
George, who has 85 caps, is one of the few players absolutely assured of his place as England undergo a period of transition in the wake of regular captain Owen Farrell’s decision to stand down from international rugby and the usual post-World Cup turnover.
The uncapped players are Immanuel Feyi-Waboso (Exeter), Chandler Cunningham-South (Harlequins), Ethan Roots (Exeter Chiefs), Oscar Beard (Harlequins), Fraser Dingwall (Northampton Saints), Tom Roebuck (Sale Sharks) and Fin Smith (Northampton Saints).
There are recalls for Northampton’s in-form back George Furbank, Bath scrumhalf Ben Spencer, whose last appearance was as a late replacement in the 2019 World Cup final, centre Henry Slade, hooker Luke Cowan-Dickie and number eight Alex Dombrandt.
“They’ve played well, I know it’s obvious to say,” Borthwick said of the recalled players. “Look at Slade in particular, I think it’s three or four times he’s had the match-winning kick, or match-winning interception.
“He’s been the guy clearly that they turn to. After that incredible disappointment of not being selected for the World Cup he’s gone back to his club and he’s been tremendous.”
Prop Kyle Sinckler, reported to be on the brink of securing a move to French club Toulon, and number eight Billy Vunipola, are notable absentees, with Borthwick saying he had spoken to both about what they needed to do to get back into contention.