Scrumhalf George Gregan was named today as Australia's new captain to replace John Eales.
Eales retired after leading the world champions to a second successive Tri-Nations series victory at the start of the month.
"The captain has to be a player who is considered a virtual automatic selection and George is certainly that," Australian Rugby Union managing director John O'Neill said.
Gregan takes over after leading the ACT Brumbies to their first Super 12 title this year.
He has a long association with former Brumbies coach Eddie Jones, who took over from successful Australia coach Rod Macqueen after the Lions series.
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| George Gregan to replace John Eales as Wallaby skipper. |
"Being Wallaby captain is truly a great honour," Gregan said. It's a job that comes with enormous responsibility but like the smooth transition of coaches this year I believe the team will also carry on without much disruption," he said.
Gregan, Eales' long-time deputy, will lead Australia on an end-of-season tour to Canada and Europe. Eales had identified Gregan as his heir, and the ascension was confirmed when Australia announced a 30-man squad for that tour.
Australia are due to play tests against Canada, Spain, France, England and Wales on the tour. They will also play one match against the Barbarians on November 28th.