ENGLAND COACH EDDIE Jones has confirmed Dylan Hartley as his captain for the Six Nations.

The Northampton hooker, who last season led England to the Grand Slam, took to the stage at this morning’s championship launch alongside rival Six Nations captains for a question and answer session.

Hartley was given a six-week ban after being sent off for striking Sean O’Brien during Northampton’s defeat by Leinster on 3 December.

But despite his recent lack of match action, the New Zealand-born front-row is on course to lead England in their Six Nations opener against France at Twickenham on 4 February.

Hartley, asked about his fitness, replied: “We did this last year talking about me, I’m here on behalf of the team.

“The challenge is to use this week as best we can to get the preparation right for a huge first game.”

Jones arrived at the launch with a bruised face, after hurting himself during a fall.