RFU chief executive Ian Ritchie backs Dylan Hartley as England captain

• Ritchie has no issue with hooker’s disciplinary record• England may invoke exceptional circumstances clause for Sam UnderhillDylan Hartley’s anticipated appointment as England captain has been given tacit approval by the Rugby Football Union chief executive, Ian Ritchie, who denied that such a move would erode the governing body’s core values.The head coach, Eddie Jones, is expected to announce the hooker as Chris Robshaw’s successor – for the start of the Six Nations at least – on Monday before the opening match against Scotland at Murrayfield on 6 February. Related: Dylan Hartley on eggshe…