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Johannesburg - Lions coach John Mitchell announced on Tuesday that Franco van der Merwe will captain the Lions during this year's Vodacom Super Rugby competition.
Van der Merwe took over as captain of the Johannesburg side during the Currie Cup when regular skipper Cobus Grobbelaar was ruled out through injury.
Centre Doppies la Grange was named vice-captain.
"I'm very proud to be the captain for the new season," said Van der Merwe.
"It is a big honour and the relationship between me and coach John Mitchell has just gone from strength to strength from last year's Currie Cup and it feels nice to have his backing and that of the management."
It was also good to have the support of the players, he said.
Asked about the new additions to the team, Van der Merwe said there was an incredible energy in the group.
"The new guys have been slotting in really well. Doppies has also just come back from a minor injury and having his experience next to me helps a lot."
The Lions open their Super Rugby campaign on February 16 when they host the Bulls at Coca-Cola Park.
Van der Merwe took over as captain of the Johannesburg side during the Currie Cup when regular skipper Cobus Grobbelaar was ruled out through injury.
Centre Doppies la Grange was named vice-captain.
"I'm very proud to be the captain for the new season," said Van der Merwe.
"It is a big honour and the relationship between me and coach John Mitchell has just gone from strength to strength from last year's Currie Cup and it feels nice to have his backing and that of the management."
It was also good to have the support of the players, he said.
Asked about the new additions to the team, Van der Merwe said there was an incredible energy in the group.
"The new guys have been slotting in really well. Doppies has also just come back from a minor injury and having his experience next to me helps a lot."
The Lions open their Super Rugby campaign on February 16 when they host the Bulls at Coca-Cola Park.
