Robinson named England rugby union captain

LONDON (AP) -- Jason Robinson has become the first former rugby league player to captain England's rugby union team.

The Rugby Football Union appointed Robinson on Monday as captain for Saturday's test against Canada at Twickenham. He steps in for Jonny Wilkinson, who will miss the game with an arm injury.

With Wilkinson also in doubt for matches against South Africa on Nov. 20 and Australia on Nov. 27, Robinson's role could be extended.

"I have been blessed with success in my rugby career and I am grateful for that," the 30-year-old Robinson said. "But when new challenges such as the captaincy come along, I have no hesitation in accepting."

Robinson switched from 13-man rugby league to the 15-man union code in 2000. Robinson, who captains his club Sale, will also be the first black player to captain England.

"Jason is an outstanding member of the England team who has led by example for the three years he has been playing international rugby union," England coach Andy Robinson said.

"He has an exceptional record not only in this sport but also in rugby league, earning him the respect of the whole squad."

Other contenders for the England captaincy had included Mike Tindall, Steve Borthwick and Will Greenwood. Tindall was named vice captain.

"I have no hesitation in offering (Robinson) the captaincy in Jonny's absence," the coach said. "I have no doubt others could also have stepped up to the mark but I am very satisfied Jason will do well in the role."

Robinson has won 33 England caps, mostly at fullback, and scored 19 tries. Within months of switching from league to union, he won his first cap for England.

Robinson scored a try in England's World Cup win over Australia in November. He said becoming England's 118th captain was a highlight of his career.

During his rugby league career, Robinson won seven caps for England, two for Great Britain and won two Challenge Cup titles with Wigan.

With Wilkinson injured, Charlie Hodgson is at flyhalf, with Mark Cueto making his international debut on the wing. Hooker Andy Titterrell, prop Andrew Sheridan, flanker Andy Hazell and scrum half Hall Charlton will earn their first caps if they come off the bench.

Henry Paul, a New Zealand-born former rugby league player, was named at center for the first time. Paul switched codes in 2001.

Scrum half Harry Ellis is out with an Achilles tendon injury.

"There's a really positive attitude in this squad and I have no doubt these players will give their all against Canada this week," Andy Robinson said. "I congratulate Mark Cueto in earning his first cap and am confident he will be the first of several new faces to settle amongst our more established players, as we embark on this next era for England."

Lineup: Jason Robinson (captain), Mark Cueto, Mike Tindall, Henry Paul, Josh Lewsey, Charlie Hodgson, Andy Gomarsall, Graham Rowntree, Steve Thompson,Julian White, Danny Grewcock, Steve Borthwick, Joe Worsley, Lewis Moody, Martin Corry.

(knr)