Edinburgh lock Scott Murray will celebrate earning his 50th cap by captainingScotland in the World Cup warm-up match against Italy at Murrayfield on Saturday.
Murray leads Scotland in the absence of Bryan Redpath, who is recovering from a detached bicep muscle injury sustained in Scotland's second test against South Africa in June.
"Frankly it was a big surprise for me to be given the captaincy," Murray said today at the team hotel in the Scottish Borders.
"Not many guys reach the 50 mark. So for me it's a great honour and doubly so to be given the captaincy," added the delighted captain of his landmark cap.
Scotland coach Ian McGeechan added: "Both on and off the field, I'm very pleased with what Scott has achieved."
McGeechan also said Redpath was on track with his rehabilitation since picking up the injury on June.
"We're sticking to the 12 weeks for full recovery that the medics have advised. Bryan's getting frustrated but he's feeling good," said McGeechan.
"He's hoping to have a run-out with (English club) Sale onSeptember 12th.
"Right now he's able to take part in all the running. The only thing he can't do is pass off his left hand.
"He's working very hard on his rehab and we'll acceleratehis physical progress towards the World Cup."
McGeechan is expected to name his full team tomorrow.