Boer appointed Gloucester captain

South African flanker Jake Boer has been appointed Gloucester captain for the new season.

Boer led the side on several occasions last term, including Gloucester’s Powergen Cup final victory against Northampton at Twickenham.

He takes over full-time leadership duties from prop Phil Vickery, who is unlikely to play any club rugby until at least December because of England World Cup commitments.

“Jake was very successful as a captain last season, proving he is more than capable to do the job,” said Gloucester rugby director Nigel Melville.

“We needed someone who is going to be with us all season, and Jake will be.”

Boer was Zurich Premiership player of the season last term, and a key figure behind a campaign when Gloucester lifted English rugby’s domestic cup and reached the league title play-off final.