Hartley fit enough to lead England

The Northampton hooker, who last season led England to a Six Nations Grand Slam, took to the stage at the 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 December 3.

However, the New Zealand-born frontrow is on course to lead England in their Six Nations opener against France at Twickenham on February 4.  

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,"

Agence France-Presse