Worcester Warriors can confirm that GJ van Velze will captain Warriors during the 2014/15 Greene King IPA Championship campaign.
The 26-year-old was named captain for the pre-season clashes against Sale Sharks and Exeter Chiefs and has now been given the role on a permanent basis.
He will be supported by England international Chris Pennell, who has again been named as vice-captain for the new campaign.
Warriors Director of Rugby Dean Ryan said: “GJ has displayed true leadership qualities since joining the club this summer and demonstrated his ability to influence the side in a positive way throughout the pre-season campaign.
“We have assembled a squad which contains a number of strong characters and they will all play a significant role to move this club forward.
“Chris’ progress as a player has been clear over the last year and he will again assume the role of vice-captain.”
Captain Van Velze, who was part of the Northampton Saints side which lifted the Aviva Premiership trophy at Twickenham in May, moved to Sixways this summer.
During his time at Franklin’s Gardens, the number eight made 45 appearances and was a consistent performer in a Heineken Cup side which reached two consecutive Aviva Premiership finals.
Before his move to England, Van Velze played at Pretoria-based Blue Bulls and twice captained the province's junior team to the Vodacom Cup.
The powerful back-row worked his way through the ranks at Loftus Versfeld to become a key member of the Bulls' Currie Cup squad before making his Super Rugby debut in 2010.
He also captained South Africa Schools and was nominated for the IRB Under 19 Player of the Year in 2007.
Warriors travel to Ashton Gate this Sunday as they open their Greene King Championship campaign against last season’s play-off finalists Bristol Rugby. Ryan and his side then return to Sixways a week later to face West Midlands rivals Moseley.