Conrad Smith has been confirmed as captain of the Hurricanes for their Super Rugby season opening match against the Stormers in Cape Town.

Smith will be winning his 67th Hurricanes cap in the match but this cap will be his first the Hurricanes new captain.

In 2007 Smith took over the captaincy in a match against the Reds but this will be the first time he has started as captain.

Smith had an extended break from Hurricanes training after the Rugby World Cup and only returned to Hurricanes pre-season training on Monday 6th February.

Upon his return to Wellington from his overseas adventure, Smith expressed his delight to be back with the team. "I've had a good break, but now I'm ready to get back into it and tackle the season ahead."

"We have a passionate and talented group of players in the Hurricanes this year and it will be an honour to be part of the group leading this side."

The Hurricanes are expected to name their team to face the Stormers late on Thursday.