Kelly Brown has replaced his fellow Borderer Ross Ford as the new Scotland rugby captain.
The 30-year-old Melrose man will lead the Scots out at Murrayfield next Sunday as they try to defeat New Zealand for the first ever time.
Head coach Andy Robinson announced Brown’s election today at the national squad’s training camp at St Andrew’s.
However, the decision will be a blow to Kelso’s Ford, who led Scotland to a memorable win over Australia in the summer.
Robinson said: “Kelly Brown is an inspirational person. He has an aura, confidence and belief about him and a firm understanding of the game.
“He has been a very consistent performer for Scotland. It’s because of these qualities that he has been appointed Scotland captain.
“I would like to congratulate Ross Ford in the way he has handled himself as captain of the side but also in respect of Kelly taking over,” Robinson added.
Saracens’ Brown told www.scottishrugby.org: “It’s obviously a huge honour and though I haven’t played for Scotland for a while I’m really looking forward to the challenges ahead.”
Included in the training camp was Kelso prop Grant Shiells, currently playing at Newcastle Falcons.
The 23-year-old was called up due to injuries to a number of front row forwards, including Geoff Cross of Galashiels, who is suffering from concussion.
Scotland follow up the game against the All Blacks with tests against South Africa and Tonga.