Kevin Sinfield is the "perfect" choice to lead England into the 2013 World Cup, according to the man he pipped for the post.
Sinfield, 32, underlined his status as the best captain in Leeds' history as his side claimed a sixth Grand Final triumph at Old Trafford last Saturday and was on Friday appointed as England skipper, succeeding Rhinos team-mate Jamie Peacock, who retired from the international game this summer.
Sinfield got the nod from England head coach Steve McNamara ahead of Warrington skipper Adrian Morley, who told the Super League website: "I'm made up for Sinny. He is a great leader and is the perfect successor to Jamie."
Morley added: "He is an exceptional professional and does everything to his maximum. This is the start of an exciting new chapter for English rugby league and he will give the team great leadership both on and off the field."
Sinfield's appointment was announced to the England squad during their first night on South African soil as they began a 10-day high-altitude training camp in Potchefstroom ahead of the autumn internationals against France and Wales.
"I am immensely honoured," Sinfield said. "Representing your country is always special but to captain England will be the proudest moment of my career to date.
"There could have been a number of candidates for the job, when you look at the number of leaders we have in the squad, but Steve McNamara has asked me take up the role and I will do it to the best of my ability."
Sinfield, who made his England debut in the 2000 World Cup, will lead his country for the first time against Wales in Wrexham on October 27. A clash with France follows a week later at Hull KR's Craven Park ground, before the series final in Salford on November 11.
McNamara said: "Kevin is an outstanding leader and was my number one choice when selecting a successor to Jamie Peacock. The standards he sets both on and off the field are exemplary.
"He commands the ultimate respect from his fellow professionals and will take this group of players forward in what promises to be a demanding yet rewarding year for England Rugby League."
