Watson leads the way at Bath

Before accepting the role, Watson was keen to ensure that the senior players were happy with his selection and that last season's captain, Michael Claassens, was also pleased with the decision. "Michael took the team through some difficult times and laid an incredibly good foundation for us," he said. "It is a big honour and privilege, but it is also a big responsibility."

Head coach, Steve Meehan, felt that it was only right that other members of the team should be consulted before the captaincy was confirmed.

"The players were very appreciative of being asked their opinion," Meehan said. "There are a number of things that have to be taken into consideration when choosing a captain and for me Luke ticked all those boxes.

"But, when you are new to a club, you have to earn the respect of the players, you have to train hard, you have to play hard and I believe Luke has done that."

While taking charge on the pitch, Watson will be working alongside six 'Section Leaders': David Flatman, Stuart Hooper, Danny Grewcock, Michael Claassens, Olly Barkley and Guy Mercer.