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• Pat Sanderson

Pat Sanderson has been selected to lead England's summer tour of Australia, after boss Andy Robinson confirmed Martin Corry will not travel.

Robinson is set to announce his squad on Monday, but he has named his new skipper early as the tour begins to gather some direction ahead of the first Test on June 11.

The England head coach confirmed: "Martin has done an outstanding job as captain of England this season and has led by example, but along with a number of other players, I think it is important Martin is rested for the summer tour.

"He has had a long season, preceded by the Lions tour, and it is crucial that he has a summer off and then prepares for his club and country commitments in 2006/07, leading up to and including the Rugby World Cup in 2007.

"Pat Sanderson has accepted the role of captain for the Australia tour, and like Martin he has the qualities I am looking for in that role.

"He has led Worcester Warriors well, and has made a complete return to form from the injury he sustained earlier in the season. I am sure he will do an excellent job for the side."

The Worcester back row forward has just nine caps to his name, yet he will be considered one of the more senior members of the summer tour 'down under', as England turn to their stars of the future.

Several top names have already pulled out, including Lawrence Dallaglio and Steve Thompson, and Corry's name has now been added to that list.

Sanderson has previously skippered England A in the victorious Churchill Cup campaign, and he has already encountered world forces Australia, New Zealand (twice) and South Africa during his short international career.

Now, the 28-year-old plans to use that experience in his new role, and he was keen to make his intentions clear.

"Martin led England well last autumn when I was playing with him in the back row, and my aim now is to take his own high standards with me to Australia," said Sanderson.

"I was privileged to lead England in winning the Churchill Cup last summer, and this is another huge honour for me and my family.

"I will do everything I can to help England perform well against the Wallabies."