England captain Dylan Hartley will miss the remainder of the 2017/18 season as well as the summer tour to South Africa because of concussion.

The Northampton Saints hooker sustained the injury in the Six Nations match against Ireland last month and has not played any competitive rugby since.

Following specialist medical advice, Hartley will take an extended period of rest over the summer with a view to starting Saints’ pre-season training. 

“I’m very disappointed that I will not be available for selection for Saints’ remaining Premiership games, as well England’s tour to South Africa,” said the 32-year-old.

“It has been recommended by specialists that I take a break this summer and while I find that decision hard to accept, it’s important I listen to that advice. 

“I intend to use this time to recover fully from my injury, so I can be ready to hit the ground running when pre-season training starts later this summer."