BRANSGORE thrower Scott Mitchell is hoping to repeat past glories when he skippers England at the Six Nations Cup in Sligo this weekend.

Mitchell hit the winning double on his debut in the tournament two years ago, sinking Dutchman Jan Dekker with a 15-dart leg.

And the 46-year-old enjoyed further success 12 months later when he skippered his country to their second straight crown.

The former BDO world champion this year captains an England men's side which includes Mark McGeeney, Jamie Hughes, Dennis Harbour and James Hurrell.

The quintet kick off their group campaign against the Republic of Ireland at Great Southern Hotel tonight (10.30) before facing Wales tomorrow lunchtime (12.15).

The top two teams in the two groups advance to the semi-finals, which are due to be played on Sunday.

Mitchell told the Daily Echo: "There was no prouder moment than when I picked up the trophy as England captain.

"We fancy our chances this year but it's going to be difficult to win the group, no two ways about it.

"When you bring the teams down to squads of five, it really does even things up. But I think our guys are in form and we are looking forward to the challenge.

"England have been fortunate to have such good teams in the past few years but this time we have to prove ourselves."