WORCESTER-born-and-raised Luke Narraway is the new club captain at Greene King IPA Championship outfit London Irish.

Narraway, 32, takes over the role from George Skivington, who called time on his playing career at the end of last season.

The former King’s School pupil signed a one-year contract extension in April and has made 47 appearances for the Exiles since joining from Perpignan in 2014.

"It is a huge honour to have been named London Irish captain,” said Narraway, whose side suffered relegation from the Aviva Premiership last term.

"This is a club steeped in history and tradition and to be following in the footsteps of many legendary captains down the years, fills me with immense pride,” added the former Gloucester back-row.

Irish open their Championship campaign at home to Doncaster Knights on Saturday (3pm).

Narraway, who has won seven caps for England, is well aware of the threats posed by last season's play-off finalists and insists the Championship will be a stern test for his side.

"Doncaster had a fantastic season last time out and will be looking to mount a serious challenge once again,” said Narraway.

He added: "The Championship will be an extremely competitive competition and we will need to be fully prepared for every game week in week out.”

Director of rugby Nick Kennedy said: "Luke captained the club on a number of occasions last season in the absence of George [Skivington].

"He always led by example both on and off the field with his work rate and passion, and I'm delighted that he has accepted the captaincy for this season.”