Guy Mercer named new Bath Rugby captain

Openside flanker Guy Mercer has been announced as the new captain of Bath Rugby.

Mercer graduated from the Bath Rugby youth academy in the 2009-10 season and has since gone on to make 88 appearances for the blue, black and white, scoring 25 tries in the process.

England international George Ford will be the vice captain.

"This is a huge honour for me," Mercer said.

"I grew up watching Bath, so to play for them was always a huge ambition of mine, and now to have been asked to lead the players makes me incredibly proud.

"I am really excited to be part of building the culture here at the club and moving forward as a group. There is a lot to look forward to and the players can't wait to get the season started."

New Director of Rugby Todd Blackadder added: "Guy is a terrific player who knows Bath Rugby inside and out, which is an invaluable resource in a captain.

"He works tremendously hard both on and off the pitch and it is that work ethic, combined with his personality, which has earned him the respect of his team and the supporters.

"We are fortunate to have a strong core of leaders within the squad who will also play their part in what will be a big season for us."