Sanderson named skipper for Canada tour

Pat Sanderson has set his sights on lifting the Churchill Cup after being appointed leader of England’s Canadian expedition this summer.

The Worcester flanker will captain a squad that includes Lions hopefuls Jonny Wilkinson, Mike Tindall and Phil Vickery.

All three World Cup winners, subject to proving their match fitness, could end up with Clive Woodward in New Zealand rather than England in Edmonton, but Sanderson still finds himself at the helm of a squad bristling with youth and experience.

“I am overjoyed by the news, just thrilled, really,” he said. “This is a great set of players, and the Churchill Cup is a good tour to bring on new talent as well.

“We are going to Canada to win, and anything less would be a disappointment for us.”

The four-team competition sees England contesting silverware with Argentina, Canada and the USA.

England, whose players will not receive caps, tackle Canada on June 19, when victory would secure their place in the final seven days later against Argentina or the USA.