Sam's style suits Hill in quest to be top captain

NEWLY-appointed Worcester skipper Ted Hill will take inspiration from legendary leaders Sam Warburton and Lawrence Dallaglio as he aims to stamp his mark on proceedings as the fourth youngest captain in Premiership history.

- NEALE HARVEY

Hill will become Worcester’s most youthful top-flight captain when, at 21 years and 142 days, he leads his side into battle at Gloucester on August 15, while only Sale’s James Gaskell and Alex Sanderson, along with Saracens lock Maro Itoje, have been younger.

Warburton, who captained Wales at 22, and Dallaglio, 23 when he took charge at Wasps, began their leadership journeys at a similarly tender age and dynamic back-rower Hill has no qualms about taking on the vital role for his home town club.

Hill, who harbors hopes of adding to his single England cap during the Autumn Internationals, told The Rugby Paper: “It feels a bit bizarre to captain at a young age but it’s something I feel ready for and I’m excited to accept the different challenges.

“When Alan Solomons gave me a ring and asked how I felt about doing it, it was a lovely surprise and it was a very quick chat really.

“Solly said that with the way the club’s going and the vision he has that heavily includes our academy guys, he wanted a homegrown captain. Having Will Butler as my vice-captain underlines that ambition to have a core group of academy players.

“There’ll be difficult areas at times but there are loads of experienced guys like GJ Van Velze, Niall Annett, Matt Kvesic and Chris Pennell around as well, who’ve all led before and done excellent jobs, so if I need any help I’ve only got to ask.”