By Mitch Phillips LONDON (Reuters) -England coach Steve Borthwick sprung a surprise when naming his Six Nations squad on Tuesday when he made lock Maro Itoje his new captain in place of Jamie George,

Zoe Aldcroft will replace Marlie Packer as the England captain for this year’s Women’s Six Nations and Rugby World Cup. In a significant change, which could signal that Packer’s World Cup spot is under threat, Aldcroft has been selected to lead the group in a pivotal year for John Mitchell’s side.

England coach Steve Borthwick said having a captain who could last the whole match had been a factor in his decision to appoint Maro Itoje as skipper for the Six Nations in place of Jamie George. Both Saracens forwards were included in a 36-man England squad for the tournament announced on Tuesday.