Ex Saffer Barritt named Saracens skipper

England centre Brad Barritt was confirmed as captain of English and European champions Saracens on Thursday.

Barritt, 29, takes the armband from previous skipper Alistair Hargreaves as Saracens look to defend their double in the forthcoming campaign.

With Hargreaves sidelined due to injury for much of last season, South Africa-born Barritt led Saracens to both the English Premiership and European Champions Cup titles and he now takes the job on a permanent basis.

"Throughout Brad's time at the club, he has shown exceptional leadership qualities and he is ideally qualified to be our captain," Saracens rugby director Mark McCall said.

"Brad is someone who leads through example - through his actions, attitude and application.

"He is one of the most competitive players I have ever come across, showing complete commitment to the game, and is a role model professional. He is a natural leader."