Peacock primed to be World Cup leader - Sport in brief - Evening Standard
       

Peacock primed to be World Cup leader

Leeds forward Jamie Peacock is hoping his appointment as England captain for next week's Gillette international against France will stand him in good stead for the end-of-season World Cup.

The 30-year-old former Bradford second-rower was an obvious choice to skipper England after leading Great Britain to a 3-0 series whitewash of New Zealand last season and is almost certain to keep the role for the 10-team tournament in Australia in October and November.

"I've got one foot in the door," he said. "I think I've grown into the role of captain. One of the skills I have is an ability to learn and adapt and I think I've done that."

Peacock inherited the national captaincy from Paul Sculthorpe, who was only in charge for one Great Britain game following the departure to rugby union of Andy Farrell, but missed last year's mid-season Test against the French because coach Tony Smith decided to rest some of his senior players.

But Smith plans to field a full-strength England team in Toulouse on Friday week as he builds for the World Cup.

"Jamie is the right man for the job," said Smith. "He always gives his best when he is playing for his country."

Peacock, who is not captain of Leeds, has won 26 caps for Great Britain and played for England in the last World Cup in 2000 but has yet to face France at any level.

"It's a fantastic honour and a great moment in my international career," he said. "I cannot wait to lead the side out against France. I feel an incredible passion about representing my country."

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