Flank Siya Kolisi has been confirmed as the Stormers’ captain for this year’s Super Rugby tournament.

The 25-year-old takes over the leadership reins from last year’s co-captains Juan de Jongh and Frans Malherbe, with lock Eben Etzebeth named as vice-captain.

Coach Robbie Fleck confirmed the new leadership within the Stormers ranks on Tuesday, saying that Kolisi and Etzebeth will be ably supported by the strong core of senior players with the squad.

‘We have developed a number of strong leaders in this group, so Siya will certainly not be shouldering the responsibility on his own, but we felt it important to appoint someone who the team can rally around,’ said Fleck.

‘Although still quite young, he is already an experienced player who has matured both on and off the field and is one of the most popular and respected players in our squad,’ the coach added.

Commentating on his appointment, Kolisi says it is a honour for him to captain Stormers, and that it’s a responsibility he does not take lightly.

‘There have been some great players who have led the Stormers out at Newlands, so for me to be amongst them is both a great privilege and a great responsibility. With the support of Eben and the rest of the senior players in the squad I am confident that we can create something special that our fans can be proud of,’ explained Kolisi.

Etzebeth also commented on his new role, saying it is a challenge he looks forward to: ‘Siya and I have played together for a long time and I am honoured to stand beside him as we look to take the Stormers to the next level.’

The Stormers are set to kick off their campaign against the Bulls at Newlands on 25 February.

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