Thursday Round-Up
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Thursday Round-Up
Hartley expected to be England captain
Dylan Hartley is expected to be named England's new captain in the coming days according to the BBC
Head coach Eddie Jones wants the Northampton hooker to replace Chris Robshaw for the Six Nations campaign.
The England squad will gather for the first time under Jones at a training camp after this weekend's games.
Harlequins flanker Robshaw, 29, has been captain for the past four years, but came in for heavy criticism during and after England's disastrous World Cup campaign.
Meanwhile, Jones has confirmed Jonny Wilkinson and ex-Australia flanker George Smith will carry out "informal" coaching roles with England during the Six Nations.
"They will come in and help the players at various times," he said.
"George will definitely come in next Wednesday to help the back rowers. But it's very informal. He's not a coach as such, he's doing it out of friendship.
"He's one of the best defence breakdown forwards in the world. He will help our aspiring number sevens."
Jones disappointed about Ashton ban
Eddie Jones has expressed his disappointment over the suspension of Saracens winger Chris Ashton.
Ashton was banned for 10 weeks after being found guilty of eye gouging on Wednesday.
Jones has confirmed he will wait on the outcome of an appeal before finding a replacement.
He added: "He's been playing well this season and it looks like he has been working hard. Everyone has set-backs and it's about how hard he fights back now.
"He has to serve his time, come back, make sure he is looking after his fitness, his speed and his skills and make sure he comes back in good fettle.
"If he is back on the field and playing well then he will be available for selection again. I'm very disappointed for him and disappointed for the team, but we move on."
