Blitzbok Brown steps down

To date, Brown has played in 56 World Sevens Series tournaments and is looking forward to playing a supportive role to guide the young leaders taking the team forward.

"The time has come where it feels right for me to step aside as captain of the team. I look forward to moving into a supportive role with the aim of helping the young leaders find their rhythm and, most importantly, concentrating on adding as much value to the team on and off the field.

"I discussed the move with the coach [Neil Powell] shortly after our return from the Olympics and we [recently] made the decision.

"It is has been an immense privilege that I have had for the better part of five years and we are in a great position to bring some new, fresh ideas into the role.

"I cannot begin to express my gratitude for the opportunity to lead such an amazing group of people. Having said that, I must thank the leadership group that surrounded me, making the position most enjoyable. Thank you to everyone that placed their trust in me to fulfil the captaincy," Brown said.

Powell praised Brown for the role he played and emphasised that the Blitzbok veteran still has an important role to play in the team. Philip Snyman, who captained the Blitzboks earlier this year in four tournaments, will take over as captain of the team.

"Kyle always put the team before himself and this is another example of that. We are starting to bring new faces into the squad, so it will be great to still have a leader like Kyle around to show them what the team culture is, what we stand for as a group and a team.

"Kyle still has a lot to offer as a player and I am convinced we will still see some inspiring performances from him this season. He was an amazing captain and we salute his contribution.

"We already had a strong leadership group in the squad and Philip is a natural leader of men, so it was an easy choice. He will do well, I have no doubt," Powell said.