Pat Sanderson has been rewarded for a superb debut Sixways season by being named England skipper.

The back-row ace, who moved to Worcester from Harlequins last year, was yesterday appointed leader of the England squad bound for Canada in the summer.

Sanderson will captain a squad which includes Lions hopefuls Jonny Wilkinson, Mike Tindall and Phil Vickery.

All three World Cup winners, subject to proving their match fitness, could end up with Sir Clive Woodward in New Zealand rather than England in Edmonton, but Sanderson still finds himself at the helm of a squad bristling with youth and experience.

"I am overjoyed by the news, just thrilled really," he said. "This is a great set of players and the Churchill Cup is a good tour to bring on new talent as well.

"We are going to Canada to win, and anything less would be a disappointment for us."

The four-team competition sees England contesting silverware with Argentina, Canada and the USA.

England, whose players will not receive caps, tackle Canada on June 19, when victory would secure their place in the final seven days later against Argentina or the USA.

"When choosing who should captain the side, although a player like Phil Vickery, who has captained England in the past, was a consideration along with other candidates, it was felt most appropriate to name Pat Sanderson," said England head coach Andy Robinson.

"He has played for, and captained his club regularly this season, to great effect, and he thoroughly deserves leading England in June."

Worcester's director of rugby John Brain added: "It's good for Pat and reflects well on the club. He's had a very good season here.

"I think there are a few surprising omissions, however. The most noticeable one is Craig Gillies. I would, after the season he has had in the Premiership, have expected to see him in there."

Brain will assess Chris Horsman's fitness today after the prop received positive news from his specialist yesterday.

The tighthead has been out for a month with a neck injury.

Worcester take on Northampton on Saturday in a relegation showdown at Sixways. Leeds tackle Quins at Headingley tonight in another significant Premiership encounter.