Before accepting the role, Luke was keen to ensure that the senior players were happy with his selection and that last season's captain Michael Claassens, whom Luke and the team highly respect, was also pleased with the decision. "Michael took the team through some difficult times and laid an incredibly good foundation for us," said Luke. "It is a big honour and privilege, but it is also a big responsibility.

"Having spoken with Steve, Michael and a lot of the other players, we have taken our time in coming to the decision and making sure that everyone is happy.

"It is very much about the team, about Bath Rugby, about the bigger picture. We never want to be too focussed on individuals and that must resonate through every decision we make."

Echoing Luke's sentiments, Head Coach Steve Meehan felt that it was only right that other members of the team should be consulted before the captaincy was confirmed.

"The players were very appreciative of being asked their opinion," Meehan said. "There are a number of things that have to be taken into consideration when choosing a captain and for me Luke ticked all those boxes.

"But, when you are new to a club, you have to earn the respect of the players, you have to train hard, you have to play hard and I believe Luke has done that."

Whilst Luke is captain for the up-and-coming season he will be working alongside six 'Section Leaders'. These players are David Flatman, Stuart Hooper, Danny Grewcock, Michael Claassens, Olly Barkley and Guy Mercer.