Jamie George is anticipated to be announced as the new captain for England, replacing Owen Farrell. This announcement will be made by Steve Borthwick on Wednesday, when he reveals his revamped team for the Six Nations.

In recent weeks, George has become the top candidate, surpassing Ellis Genge and George Ford. With Farrell not available and Courtney Lawes retired, Borthwick needs to find a replacement. Towards the end of last year, there were rumors that George was close to signing with a top French club, which would have put his England career on hold. However, he was convinced to stay at Saracens and will be one of the first players to receive the Rugby Football Union’s new hybrid contracts next season. As a result, Borthwick seems prepared to promote him to a leadership role.

George has recently been sidelined due to a neck injury, but the 33-year-old hooker is anticipated to recover in time for the Six Nations. He is also one of the handful of players that Borthwick can count on as a guaranteed starter.

Following England’s third-place performance at the World Cup in late October, George was uncertain if he would pursue participation in the 2027 tournament. However, in the near future, he would serve as a reliable and dependable candidate for the position.

After leading the British & Irish Lions during their 2021 trip to South Africa, he has been talking about possibly becoming captain for his country. George stated, “I am very honored to even be considered for the role.” He acknowledged that Owen has been the captain for most of their playing careers together and praised his abilities. However, George has experience leading teams and is excited about the opportunity.

Genge has not been playing since the beginning of December, which could have been a factor in his selection, but he is getting close to being able to play for Bristol again. He probably won’t be ready to play against Connacht in the Champions Cup on Friday, but he might choose to skip the first week of England’s training camp in Girona so that he can play against Bath on January 27th before joining Borthwick’s team. With Mako Vunipola retired and Bevan Rodd injured, and doubts about Joe Marler, the in-form Beno Obano is likely to be called up as a loosehead prop.

On Wednesday, Borthwick is expected to announce a group of approximately 36 individuals, including several new additions, as he takes on his first complete World Cup cycle as the leader. Farrell, Lawes, Jonny May, and Mako Vunipola have all declined their availability, while Jack Willis, David Ribbans, Joe Marchant, and Henry Arundell are currently situated in France. Both Kyle Sinckler and Lewis Ludlam are anticipated to join them, giving Borthwick the opportunity to introduce fresh faces into important positions.

The coach has announced his plans to select Immanuel Feyi-Waboso, Ethan Roots, and bring back Henry Slade from Exeter. He will also include Northampton winger Tommy Freeman, who has been capped by Eddie Jones but was not chosen for the World Cup, as well as several of his Saints teammates who have contributed to the team’s success in the Premiership. Bath, who are performing well, will also have representation. However, Borthwick will be waiting nervously for the result of Alfie Barbeary’s disciplinary hearing on Wednesday.

Source: theguardian.com