Rugby: Dawson named as England skipper

Northampton scrum-half Matt Dawson has been named England skipper for the Six Nations clash with Ireland at Lansdowne Road on Saturday.

Dawson replaces injured Leicester lock Martin Johnson, who pulled out of the game at the weekend after breaking his hand in the Premiership victory over Northampton.

It completes a remarkable change in fortunes for Dawson, who was criticised for his comments ahead of the first Lions Test with Australia during the summer when he attacked coach Graham Henry.

However, he has won the backing of England manager Clive Woodward, and will hope for better fortune than the last time he skippered the national side.

On that occasion, England were beaten by Scotland at Murrayfield attempting to secure a Grand Slam, the same position they find themselves in this weekend.