Canberra - Number eight Stephen Hoiles was named on Tuesday as captain of the Brumbies for this year's Super 14 ahead of Wallabies' skipper Stirling Mortlock.
The Brumbies said Hoiles will take over the captaincy from Mortlock, who has led the side 44 times since 2004.
Hoiles, who has played 16 Tests for the Wallabies, was handed the responsibility because of Mortlock's expected ongoing commitment to lead the national side this year, new Brumbies' coach Andy Friend said.
"This appointment is recognition of Steve's senior standing within the side and the respect he has from his team-mates," Friend said.
"Stirling has done an outstanding job as captain for the Brumbies over the past five seasons, including returning the side's second Super 12 title in 2004," he said.
"He was very involved throughout this process, but given his ongoing commitment as captain of the Wallabies, there was agreement that it was in the best interests of the side to pass on the role to one of his team-mates."