Scotland have named their captain for the upcoming Six Nations, with Alastair Kellock the man chosen as skipper.
The 29-year-old Glasgow lock is restored to the skipper's role which he performed with distinction in Argentina, where Scotland won the series 2-0.
Andy Robinson declared to scottishrugby.org: "Al's leadership on and off the field was a key element to our success in Argentina and, since his return from knee surgery, the quality of both his personal displays and the way he has galvanised the Glasgow side, especially over the last month, has been really pleasing.
"I have spoken about the importance of broadening the influence of leaders throughout the side and Rory Lawson, Mike Blair and Chris Cusiter have all led the side well."
Kellock made his Championship debut against France in 2006 and he will lead in the competition for the first time against the same opponents at the Stade de France a week on Saturday.
In addition to the victories in South America last summer, Kellock also took on the captaincy when Chris Cusiter was injured at Murrayfield against Australia in the autumn of 2009 and piloted Scotland to that epic win - the first over the Wallabies in 27 years.
Scotland go into their match against France in 11 days' time having won five of their last six cap internationals, a sequence which has seen them triumph in Ireland for the first time in 12 years and defeat South Africa en route to rising to seventh in the IRB's world rankings.
"To get the chance to captain Scotland for the opening Six Nations game is huge," he said.
"I was delighted to make the squad, especially after being out for almost six months with my knee after Argentina, and now to be named as captain, is a real highlight, particularly with the competition for places."
