Skinner to captain Quins

Richards gives key role to Saxons skipper

Last updated: 5th June 2008

Will Skinner

Skinner: Captain

Harlequins have appointed England Saxons skipper Will Skinner as their new captain for next season.

The 24-year-old led Quins in a number of games last term, a campaign that ended with the London club securing Heineken Cup qualification.

Skinner said: "I am really honoured to have been given the position of captain.

"It is one of my proudest achievements, and a sign of the belief that Dean Richards (rugby director) and the coaching staff have in me.

"There is so much potential in such a young squad, along with a huge amount of ambition, and I am looking forward to next season."

Richards added: "Will is an intelligent, passionate and talented player.

"He is a captain who leads by example and is hugely respected by all players and staff. He has already proven himself as a player and captain, both at club and international level."

Skinner, who played for England in last Sunday's non-cap game against the Barbarians at Twickenham, will leads the Saxons into Saturday's Barclays Churchill Cup opener against the USA in Ottawa.