5 things about new England captain Dylan Hartley

25 January 2016 02:23

England have confirmed that Dylan Hartley will be their captain for the RBS 6 Nations.

Here, Press Association Sport outlines five things about the Northampton front row.

1. He spent his early years in New Zealand.

Hartley was born and raised in Rotorua, departing to live in England when aged 16. During an extended holiday in Sussex he was brought to the attention of Worcester and was convinced to make his stay permanent.

2. He was converted to hooker

Hartley was a gifted player but was finding chances limited as a loosehead prop in New Zealand, so he welcomed the chance to join the Warriors' academy. It was there that he was converted to hooker.

3. He has led England before

When Chris Robshaw was ruled out of the third Test on the 2012 tour to South Africa because of a broken thumb, Hartley stepped into the role of captain for the first - and only - time as England drew 14-14 in Port Elizabeth.

4. His international disciplinary record is actually good

The 54 weeks of suspensions accumulated for offences such as gouging, head-butting and biting that have earned Hartley notoriety have all come when playing for Northampton. On England duty he has collected only three yellow cards.

5. There is more to Hartley than a fiery temperament

Amid the controversy generated by the 29-year-old's lengthy rap sheet and combative nature, it is often forgotten that he is an outstanding operator at the set-piece whose absence during last autumn World Cup cost England dear. He also a natural leader.

Source: PA