Robshaw retains England captaincy

Chris Robshaw was confirmed as England captain for the remainder of the Six Nations by interim coach Stuart Lancaster yesterday.

The Harlequins flanker, who took over the captaincy at the start of the tournament following Lewis Moody’s retirement after the World Cup, has so far led England to away wins over Scotland (13-6) and Italy (19-15) in his first two games in charge.

Robshaw, 25, had played just one Test for England before this Six Nations, against Argentina in Salta in June 2009.

His next match as England captain is against Wales at Twickenham on February 25.

“Chris has stepped into the role well and led a new team in two tough away fixtures,” said Lancaster.

“He is one of many leaders we could have chosen against Scotland and Italy but he has shown on and off the field the qualities required to captain a side,” added Lancaster, whose own position as the caretaker successor to Martin Johnson will be reviewed by the Rugby Football Union after the tournament.

“We feel it is right to make a call now that Chris will lead England for the rest of the RBS Six Nations,” explained Lancaster.