Guirado handed France captaincy

Guirado takes over the leadership role from Thierry Dusautoir who announced his retirement from Test rugby after after last year's World Cup.

"I discussed it with him [Guirado] on Sunday. I made it official at the end of the afternoon," Novès told L'Equipe. "He is the right person at the right time."

The 29-year-old Guirado has won 38 caps for the national team. He currently plays for reigning European champions Toulon.

France begin their Six Nations campaign against Italy at the Stade de France on February 6.

Source: L'Equipe