With the likes of regular skipper Sean O'Loughlin and Sam Burgess unavailable, Graham has been given the armband.

The 33-year-old debuted for Great Britain in 2006 and has 44 caps.

"Even though I have done it before it's still an indescribable feeling to explain what it means to lead out your country," Graham said.

"Obviously, I am very proud and there is a lot of reflection in terms of about the people who have done it before."

Graham will lead a young English side against the French in Leigh.

England coach Wayne Bennett described the front-rower as an "experienced and wonderful player".

"James always gives his best and he's not someone I have to worry about."

“He’s experienced and a wonderful player,” Bennett said. “He’s been a good player all of his career because he played Test football pretty young. “James always gives his best and he’s not someone I have to worry about.”

Read more at: https://www.sthelensreporter.co.uk/sport/former-st-helens-prop-james-graham-to-captain-england-against-france-1-9399385
“He’s experienced and a wonderful player,” Bennett said. “He’s been a good player all of his career because he played Test football pretty young. “James always gives his best and he’s not someone I have to worry about.”

Read more at: https://www.sthelensreporter.co.uk/sport/former-st-helens-prop-james-graham-to-captain-england-against-france-1-9399385
“He’s experienced and a wonderful player,” Bennett said. “He’s been a good player all of his career because he played Test football pretty young. “James always gives his best and he’s not someone I have to worry about.”

Read more at: https://www.sthelensreporter.co.uk/sport/former-st-helens-prop-james-graham-to-captain-england-against-france-1-9399385