Leinster have appointed second row Leo Cullen captain, replacing Ireland skipper Brian O'Driscoll who has decided to step down.
O'Driscoll has captained Leinster for three years culminating in the Celtic League title last season.
Cullen led the province on seven occasions last year since his return from the Leicester Tigers in the summer of 2007.
The 30-year-old has made 102 appearances in two spells for the province, 17 of them as captain, between 2003 and 2008.
Having been a part of last year's leadership team, this appointment ensures continuity and Cullen will be joined by Shane Jennings and Chris Whitaker who have been named as vice captains.