Chris Robshaw has retained the England captaincy for the November rugby union Tests, coach Stuart Lancaster announced on Wednesday.
Robshaw, aged 27 and who has led England in 16 of the past 19 Tests since he was first made captain in the 2012 Six Nations, had been thought to be under pressure from fellow flanker Tom Wood for the role in the tests against Australia, Argentina and New Zealand at Twickenham next month.
However, Lancaster said that Robshaw’s form for Harlequins this season made him the natural choice for the skipper’s role.
“The first and foremost criteria for captaincy is to be on the team sheet and Chris is in there on his playing ability,” said Lancaster, who appointed Robshaw to the role in the first place.
“But on top of that he has a massive amount of respect within the squad and has led England well. Every team needs leaders; we are building a strong group and Chris is at the forefront of that leadership.”
Robshaw, who missed out on selection for the British and Irish Lions tour of Australia, said that he was honoured to be named once again captain of England.
“Every time you pull on that white shirt it’s a privilege,” said Robshaw, whose outstanding performances for Harlequins justified Lancaster’s decision to rest him for the England tour of Argentina in the close season.
“It’s a huge honour to be named captain and to lead your country. But I’ve always said it’s not about who you are but what you do and I’ve got to make sure that I perform as a player first.
“We have some good leaders across the squad and I know we will support each other as we head into a massive game against Australia.”
The Wallabies’ spring tour starts with a match against England at Twickenham on November 2.