Hill on course for Six Nations

13 April 2012

Richard Hill, one of the leading contenders to take over Martin Johnson's job as England captain, has earmarked 7 February for his comeback from injury.

And that means he should be fit to play in England's Six Nations opener against Italy on 15 February.

The Saracens flanker is recovering from an operation on the nose that was broken by New Zealand Barbarians lock Troy Flavell when he was leading England to a 42-17 victory at Twickenham last month.

He had hoped to play a part in Saracens' Parker Pen Challenge Cup quarter-final against Montferrand, which takes place over two legs this Sunday and on 1 February, but is now resigned to concentrating on fitness work until England's squad get together on 2-4 February.

Johnson's successor is not expected to be named until next week at the earliest but Hill is attracting significant support.

Saracens head coach Rod Kafer believes that he would be a strong leader.

Kafer said: "Richard is a proven international performer, and he certainly fulfils one of the main requirements in that the captain has to be worth his place in the team.

"I don't think there is anyone who would not have Richard Hill in the England team, and that alone must put him in a stronger position than most.

"But he has also shown he can be a fine leader both on and off the field, and everyone at Saracens knows his abilities on that score."

Kafer, a former team-mate of Johnson's at Leicester and himself a World Cup winner with Australia in 1999, also added his appreciation of England's warrior captain.

"He is definitely a man you want to have on your side," he said.

"But it is only when you get to play with someone like him that you understand all the little things about his character and his approach to the game that makes him truly stand out."

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Hill on course for Six Nations

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