Farrell to skipper England against Argentina

OWEN Farrell’s will to win has been acclaimed as critical to England by Eddie Jones after he was reinstated as captain for the Autumn Series opener with Argentina at Twickenham tomorrow, writes Duncan Bech.

Farrell will skipper the side for the first time in a year after losing the role due to successive ankle injuries and Jones’ preference for Courtney Lawes, a decision based on the flanker’s greater composure when communicating with referees.

But with Lawes injured and facing the prospect of missing a large chunk of the autumn, or even the entire campaign, Jones has placed the 31-year-old Saracens playmaker, right, back in charge.

Farrell yesterday completed return to play protocols for concussion after being knocked unconscious against Exeter last month, clearing the path for him to form a midfield trio with Marcus Smith and Manu Tuilagi.

“Having coached for a while at the top level, I don’t think I’ve met a player with more competitive spirit than Owen. There’s been a few good ones and certainly he would be in the top three,” Jones said.

“He has an unbelievable desire to win, leads from the front and brings people with him. George Gregan (Australia) and John Smit (South Africa) weren’t bad either.

“Owen’s come through the protocols really well. He’s getting close to 100 caps, he’s the third-highest points scorer in Test rugby and is a significant player for us.”

Joe Cokanasiga (Bath), Ellis Genge and Kyle Sinckler (both Bristol) are in the starting line-up.

England: