Slammin’ Sam Burgess has been appointed as England’s captain for the Four Nations.
Burgess’ appointment was confirmed in London this afternoon by England head coach Wayne Bennett, with the South Sydney Rabbitohs forward replacing Wigan’s Sean O’Loughlin, who is absent from the squad through injury.
“It is an absolute honour and privilege to be asked to captain my country and to lead this group through the Four Nations tournament,” Burgess said.
“I want to thank Wayne for having the trust and belief that I can do the job and I am determined to do my best for this team.
“Although I am captain on the field for this tournament, there are a group of leaders in this squad and I know that we will work together and as hard as possible to try to achieve success on the pitch for England.”
Burgess is playing for the national side for the first time since the 2013 World Cup semi-final. He will captain the team against New Zealand, Scotland and Australia, in the last International tournament before next year’s Rugby League World Cup.
Head Coach Wayne Bennett, said: “I know the importance and pride that is placed on being captain of England. In Sam I believe we have got the right guy for the job whilst Sean is injured. He is a player and man who leads from the front and has the utmost respect from his teammates and fellow professionals.
“I know how much it means to Sam to play for his country, he is a huge player across our sport and he knows how to inspire and get the best out of people. I am certain he will do a great job as England captain.”
Burgess will lead England out for the first time in their Four Nations opener against New Zealand as he is suspended for the warm-up match against France.
