Cardiff Blues name back-rower Andries Pretorius as captain

South African-born back-rower Andries Pretorius, 26, has taken over from Paul Tito as Cardiff Blues captain.

New Zealander lock Tito, a former Maori captain, retired at the end of the 2011-12 season.

Blues director of rugby Phil Davies said: "I think Andries will grow into the role. He's very much a doer at the moment, which is good; he's a very good speaker and very articulate."

Pretorius, who has spoken of his Wales ambitions, said: "It's a big honour."

He arrived at the Blues via Hartpury College in Gloucestershire, where he studies business.

Having led the college and played for England Students, Pretorius linked up with Gloucester's academy, before moving to the Blues, making his debut against Connacht in December 2009.

Pretorius has gone on to make 33 Blues appearances, scoring three tries.

In an official statement, Davies also named wing Leigh Halfpenny, flanker Josh Navidi, lock Bradley Davies and centres Gavin Evans and Dafydd Hewitt as vice captains.

"I've also picked technical and tactical leaders around the scrum, the line-out, the restart, the breakdown and defence," said Davies, who took over in May.