Robshaw returns to lead role
CHRIS ROBSHAW will lead England again at Twickenham on Sunday 18 months after he last did so – alongside co-captain George Ford.
Coach Eddie Jones has opted for the unusual job-share arrangement against the Barbarians with usual captain Dylan Hartley playing for Northampton against Stade Francais in their qualification tie for the Champions Cup tonight.
Robshaw will have responsibility for the forwards and the defence with Ford running the backline and attack.
Big decisions will be settled after negotiation between the pair.
“We thought Robbo and George together was a great balance,” said Jones. “At this stage it’s just for this game. But the world’s changing so maybe it is right now to have two captains. If Dylan happens to go to Rotorua with the Lions or something happens to him with Northampton we’ll work out what to do in Argentina.”
For Robshaw, the return to the side after missing the Six Nations with a shoulder injury and the captaincy – or a share of it at least – is a reflection of how he has won over Jones.
The Australian, who rated him “distinctly average” when he was in charge of Japan, yesterday bracketed him alongside Richard Hill as an England flanker.
“Whatever happened was a long time ago now, and I’m looking to help this group move forward,” said Robshaw.
Josh Beaumont and Sam Underhill are two of eight uncapped players in the starting line-up.
ENGLAND: Replacements: