France coach Guy Novès has named Toulon hooker Guilhem Guirado as the new captain of the national side.

The 29-year-old Guirado takes over from Thierry Dusatoir, who announced his retirement from international rugby after France’s disappointing exit from the 2015 World Cup. 

‘He is the right person at the right time. I discussed it with him on Sunday,’ Novès commented.

Guirado made his Test debut for France against Italy in 2008 and has earned 34 caps since. He is currently playing with powerhouse Toulon after moving from Perpignan in 2014.

France get their Six Nations campaign under way against Italy on 6 February at Stade de France.

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