Saints hooker Hartley is named England captain

Hartley, who has won 66 Test caps, takes over from Harlequins flanker Chris Robshaw, who led England during the World Cup.

The England squad were informed of the news on Monday morning and they are now preparing for the Six Nations opener in Scotland on February 6.

Hartley has plenty of experience as a captain, having skippered Saints for six seasons before relinquishing the role prior to this campaign.

He has also captained England before, in a clash with South Africa back in 2012.

The 29-year-old made his international debut against Pacific Islanders in 2008 and is the most-capped player in Eddie Jones’ first England squad.