NEIL DE KOCK has spoken of his surprise at being named Saracens team captain for the new season.

The South African scrum half made a massive impact after joining the Men in Black a month into the last campaign, and formed a good understanding with fly-half Glen Jackson.

Sarries have also named England World Cup winner Richard Hill as club captain, where he will act as a middleman between the players and coaching staff.

Director of rugby Alan Gaffney said he knew for some time that De Kock was the right man to lead on the pitch.

"Neil was the stand-out candidate," said the Aussie. "He's not someone who is going to scream and shout out on the pitch, but he is an outstanding player who leads by example.

"He has courage, knowledge and intelligence and commands enormous respect - that's everything as a club we are looking for in a captain.

"He had a terrific season last year and it didn't take long to show his commitment to the club.

"One moment that stands out for me was his tackle on the try line on Cardiff Blues' Mark Lewis who then had to be helped from the pitch. It didn't stop a try, but he put down in full flow a player twice his size with what I think was one of the great tackles of modern times.

"He showed in that moment his desire and commitment to be a winner and that he will put his body on the line to do that."

De Kock was stunned when told the news by Gaffney during training today (Wednesday).

"It's a massive honour and a challenge that I intend to tackle head on," said the 28-year-old. "I couldn't have asked more from my first season with Saracens and I've been fortunate with the way things have turned out.

"It did come as a bit of a surprise when Alan Gaffney asked me to take on the role, but I can't wait for the season to begin.

"Saracens brought me to England over a year ago and now they have entrusted me to captain the team so I owe them a great deal which I will be looking to repay over the coming seasons.

"Simon Raiwalui did an outstanding job last season and I have a massive task to fill his boots, but it's one I am looking forward to and I will be a very proud man leading the team out each week."

Gaffney was also delighted to offer flanker Hill more responsibility and is confident he will revel in his role as club skipper.

"It was a new role we created last season and one which worked very well," he added. "Hugh Vyvyan did an excellent job last season and he decided to step down from the role to give someone else the opportunity to take it forward, so this season it will be Hilly's responsibility.

"He's someone who has great experience and is respected by his peers and we'll be encouraging him to be proactive in making suggestions about what we do and if it can be done even better.

"Hugh performed the role extremely well last season and he, along with the other senior players in the squad, still have a massive role to play in the development of this club."

Hill, in his 14th year at the club, added: "It's important to make sure there is a clear pathway between the players and the management.

"There are lots of preparations and arrangements that have to be made throughout the season and it's always good that the players can have an input. I'm looking forward to playing an active role in that."