Tom Youngs believes Saracens lock George Kruis was the key to England’s Six Nations success after powering his side to their first Grand Slam in 13 years.

Kruis featured in all of England’s fixtures, scoring a try to open their account in the win against Scotland before forming a lethal partnership with Saracens teammate Maro Itoje in the second row.

Hooker Youngs, who was omitted from Eddie Jones’ squad after earning 28 international caps under former coach Stuart Lancaster, was impressed with the 26-year-old’s quiet determination on the field, and insists he was the star of the Six Nations show.

“I thought George was outstanding. He was probably my pick of the forward pack from the Six Nations,” said Youngs, speaking on behalf of Land Rover, promoting the first episode of its ‘Open Range’ series which will see David Flatman meet some of the biggest names in rugby and explore their rugby journey, as part of the ‘We Deal In Real’ campaign.

“His work-rate around the field was great, he ran the line-out extremely well for a young guy, and he didn’t really put a foot wrong for me.

“He wasn’t giving away stupid penalties and he was a tireless workhorse.

“Having played both with and against him, and trained with him too, he’s a top guy and for me, was very impressive.”

Following their Six Nations success earlier this spring, England will tour Australia in June, a test that will prove just how far they have come after last year’s disappointing Rugby World Cup.

But 29-year-old Youngs, who has recently been ruled out for the rest of the season following back surgery, insists that confidence will be high in the pack after taking home the Grand Slam, and that Kruis and co will be determined to prove they are worthy champions.

“Confidence will be very high but going to Australia is a massive test and one they will be relishing,” he added. “But England will be wanting to go there and show what they’re all about.

“To knock over a southern hemisphere side in a test series would be a big step, but I wouldn’t really say that we’ve come on miles in the pack from this time last year.

“It’s a hard one to judge, but Eddie had his way of how he wanted them to play and clearly that was executed well.”

Tom Youngs is a Land Rover ambassador. Land Rover continues to champion grassroots rugby through its ‘We Deal In Real’ campaign. Follow @LandRoverRugby for the latest Open Range episodes. #WeDealInReal