DIRECTOR of rugby Neil Mitchell has announced that Stourbridge's club captain for the 2014/15 will be blindside flanker Nigel Mukarati.

Mukarati, who is in his third season with Stour, has become a firm favourite with the club and its supporters, unanimously winning the Faye Newton Supporters Player of the Year award at the end of last season.

Mitchell said: "I have an excellent working relationship with Nigel and he is highly respected by the staff, playing squad and supporters. He is regarded not just at our club as an outstanding player but throughout the National Leagues.

"When speaking with officials post match, they often commented positively on Nigel's demeanour and endeavour on the pitch. He is one of the most committed players I have seen in my tenure at Stourton Park and always leads from the front, so his appointment was one of the easiest decisions I have made.

"I am aware that Nigel was headhunted by senior clubs with far bigger financial opportunities and a lot closer to his home and young family. However, he chose to stay at Stourbridge, which is a measure of the man and his loyalty and commitment. This is why he is without question the right man to lead the squad this season.

On his appointment, Mukarati added: "A massive thank you to the club and Mitch for giving me the honour to lead this talented side in the forthcoming season. To be honest it was a very easy decision to come back this year, I have made friends for life and the support from everyone at the club has been nothing short of exceptional."

The vice captain this season will be Tom Jarvis, a club favourite with both the players and supporters alike.

Jarvis, who is England Counties most capped player, has been at the club for six seasons and his reputation, commitment on the pitch and experience will serve the first XV well.