New Saracens director of rugby Brendan Venter has confirmed Steve Borthwick will captain the side this season.

The England skipper shared the role with Andy Farrell last season and will lead the team this year after the centre's retirement. Venter also announced Wikus van Heerden as the vice captain after the South African made a major impact at Vicarage Road in his first season at the club.

Venter said: "Steve Borthwick personifies everything on which we want to model this club – his integrity, work ethic and leadership qualities make him a perfect choice as captain.

"Wikus van Heerden has the same qualities and we're lucky to have a number of players within the squad who have captained their country, club or province but we couldn't ask for two better players than Steve and Wikus to lead the side."