Moore to lead Wallabies

Sydney - Hooker Stephen Moore will captain the Wallabies in the opening Test against France this weekend, coach Ewen McKenzie said on Monday.

Moore, 31, is Australia's most capped hooker with 91 Tests and is in his 10th season with the Wallabies.

"It is a huge personal achievement in being chosen to lead your country," McKenzie said.

"Stephen has been in and around the leadership setup at a provincial and national level for a long time and as a result has experienced and seen almost every possible sporting leadership scenario. He wont be fazed by the challenge of captaincy.

"He understands what works well and why, and I think the added responsibility will suit him and the direction we are taking the team.

Moore replaces Ben Mowen as skipper after the flank opted to play in France after the 2014 Super Rugby season instead of leading the Wallabies to the 2015 World Cup.

"Captaincy is a 24/7 commitment and one where the person chosen must be heavily involved in the day-to-day business functions of the teams," McKenzie said.

"Stephen ticks all of those boxes, in addition to being a player who leads by example on the field.

Moore said he was honoured to captain the Wallabies.

"It's extremely humbling to be given the opportunity, especially when you consider the number of exceptional leaders we have in the current Australian squad," Moore said.

McKenzie said that flanker Michael Hooper and winger Adam Ashley-Cooper will be Australia's vice-captains against France.

Australia play France in three Tests, starting in Brisbane on Saturday and followed by internationals in Melbourne (June 14) and Sydney (June 21).