14 May 2008

“It feels great,” said Borthwick.  “I am tremendously honoured.” 

The 28-year-old lock will captain England on June’s two-Test tour in New Zealand, where he will be joined by fellow team-mates Olly Barkley, Michael Lipman, Lee Mears and Matt Stevens. 

“It is great news for Bath that five players have been selected for England and two in the Saxons squad.  This is representative of the hard work that everybody involved in the club has put in this season.”

Facing London Wasps this Sunday, and then putting in a title-fight at the European Challenge Cup Final, Borthwick is determined to keep focused on club matters until the end of the season. 

“Whilst everyone is happy that the players have been selected, we have some important challenges ahead of us at Bath, and we are focused on the game against Wasps this Sunday.

“It has been an outstanding season so far and everybody is fiercely determined to pick up the silverware.  We know that this game will be a great contest and we are working very hard on our preparation, as Wasps are an excellent side.”

 However, with Martin Johnson referring to Borthwick as the natural choice for the job, he is still quick to reflect on the honour of his new position.

 “I have enjoyed being captain of Bath for the past three seasons, so to be offered this opportunity for England I see as a great privilege. 

 “Every player aims to represent their country and to be selected in a squad to go to New Zealand is fantastic.  It is also a huge honour to be selected as captain.” 

 “The two tests in New Zealand do indeed pose a formidable challenge, as New Zealand are an incredibly strong team. We are in for two very difficult tests and we know that we all have to be at the top of our game to come away with two good results. However, every player will be looking forward to that challenge.”