RUCK sources suggest that Owen Farrell will be replaced as England captain with Eddie Jones set to make Ellis Genge skipper for the summer tour to Australia.
The Leicester Tigers captain, who is now one of the first names on the team-sheet for the Aussie, has developed into a fine leader in the last 12 months with his club.
Jones believes England need ‘more experienced’ leadership group if they are to challenge for the 2023 Rugby World Cup.
“Ellis will tell you that he is from the wrong side of the tracks and we’re quite happy for him to stay on the wrong side of them,” Jones said last summer.
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“But what he will also tell you is the power of learning self-discipline and that to be a hard-running prop like he is, he needs not just to satisfy his needs, but also to know what the team needs.
“Can he take a formal leadership role? There’s no reason why he can’t, whether that’s in the future, or now.”
SUMMER TOUR FIXTURES:
- Saturday 2 July – Optus Stadium, Perth (5.55pm AWST / 10.55am BST KO)
- Saturday 9 July – Suncorp Stadium, Brisbane (7.55pm AEST / 10.55am BST KO)
- Saturday 16 July – Sydney Cricket Ground, Sydney (7.55pm AEST/ 10.55am BST KO)
“No thanks” – Three players who’ve PULLED OUT of England’s summer tour
Below, we look at three players who will almost definitely not travel whether due to injury or personal choice.
#1. Anthony Watson
The 28-year-old Watson is recovering from a serious knee injury sustained in October, but the prolific Lion has been considering his next career move during the rehab process.
He has been linked to former club London Irish, Wasps and Sale, but the Tigers are regarded as favourites to sign him. Sale announced yesterday that they are bringing in another wing, Exeter’s Tom O’Flaherty, at the end of this season.
Reports suggest he won’t be fit for down under and will instead look to have a full pre-season with a view to returning to the England fold in the Autumn.
