It is the second successive season that 31-year-old Reihana, who has made 121 appearances and scored 586 points since his arrival at Franklin’s Gardens since 2002, has been given the captaincy, and the former All Black is proud to take on the responsibility once more.

“It’s always an honour to lead Saints out,” he said. “The club means a great deal to me and to everyone associated with it and to be asked to be the captain is the ultimate. I just want to lead by example and earn my right to be where I am.

“We’ve got a long, tough season ahead of us and everyone is going to have to be at their best all the time. It’s a challenge, but one I’m looking forward to immensely.”

“I’m delighted that Bruce has accepted the captaincy,” said director of rugby Jim Mallinder. “He’s a great ambassador for the club, both on and off the pitch. He has the respect of all the squad, management and supporters and I’m sure he’ll do a brilliant job leading the Saints this year.”