Corry given captaincy

LONDON - No 8 Martin Corry will captain England in their match against Italy next week.

Corry replaces injured fullback Jason Robinson, who was ruled out of the past two matches of the championship with a thumb injury.

England play Italy at Twickenham next Sunday (NZT).

Corry has been the pick of England's forwards in their three losses in this year's championship and has been a regular captain of his club Leicester.

Coach Andy Robinson has also recalled winger James Simpson-Daniel and utility back Leon Lloyd.

He did not consider centres Henry Paul and Mathew Tait due to their inclusion in the England sevens team for the World Cup in Hong Kong on March 18-20.

- REUTERS