Jamie George to captain England in Six Nations

Jamie George will captain England in the Six Nations, the Rugby Football Union announced Wednesday.

George, who has previously led Saracens and the British and Irish Lions, succeeds Owen Farrell with his club-mate missing the tournament while he takes a mental health break from international rugby union.

But there is no place in England coach Steve Borthwick's 36-man tournament training squad for either Billy Vunipola or Kyle Sinckler.

George has won 85 England caps, plus three for the Lions, and is Borthwick's first-choice hooker.

"Last week Steve asked me to be captain for the upcoming Six Nations and I accepted with huge gratitude and enthusiasm," George said.

"I love playing rugby for England. I hope that everyone has seen how much it means to me, I have never shied away from that.

"I am so excited about where this team can go and bringing the fans on that journey with us is something that I care about deeply."

He added: "I believe I'm at the stage of my career where I can give my all to the captaincy and give my best on the pitch.

"I don't underestimate the challenge ahead. Owen is a fantastic motivator and tactician, and we will undoubtedly miss his leadership.

"But I have got brilliant people around me, many of whom have won major tournaments, and utilising the great experience we have within the group is going to be crucial."

England finished third at last year's World Cup in France.

But they have won just two matches in each of the past three Six Nations.

England begin this season's Championship away to Italy on February 3.