Bristol Bears' Ellis Genge to captain England for Six Nations clash with France
The news was announced on Thursday - with the Bristol-born player replacing Owen Farrell who's been demoted to the bench
Last updated 9th Jun 2024
Bristol's very own - Ellis Genge - is leading England into their clash with France in today's Guinness Six Nations match.
The Bristolian is replacing Owen Farrell, who's been demoted to the bench for the first time in eight years, bringing some doubts into his long-term future in the squad.
For Ellis Genge, though, it'll be his first outing as captain for England when that match gets going at 4.45pm today.
The 28-year-old grew up in a council estate in the city, and has continued his rise from then - now holding the most prestigious role you can be given in the English game, thanks to being handed the captaincy for today's match.
The Bristolian started his time in rugby at the Bears Academy before moving on to the Leicester Tigers and then returning to Bristol back in the summer.
He's also featured on the England Under-20 side eight times, while has been on the main men's team since 2016, in which he's made over 40 appearances.
England Head Coach Steve Borthwick said: "We look forward to welcoming a strong France team to Twickenham this weekend in what will undoubtedly be another exciting encounter in this year’s Six Nations competition.
“Over the last three years France have built a formidable side and with just three games behind us, this England team has an excellent opportunity to test itself against one of the very best teams in the world, as we progress and build on the foundations we have put in place in the short time we have been together.
“The players selected to face our visitors are again a reflection of what I see to be the right balance of personnel for the challenge we face in this game. Marcus Smith starts at fly half and Dave Ribbans returns to the match day 23.
“Congratulations to Ellis Genge who will captain the side for the first time. Ellis will lead from the front with the sort of dedication and spirit that now rightly typifies this England team.
“I know that a sold-out Twickenham will be in full voice, and that our magnificent supporters will make Saturday a very special occasion with a brilliant atmosphere.”