The club has confirmed that Blair will continue as first team captain, while Cross retains the post of club captain.

Cross, 28, was originally appointed to the role two years ago and his remit involves taking care of off-field matters while supporting on-field leader Blair, also 28.

The flanker revealed he thoroughly enjoys the responsibility and is thrilled to continue as Edinburgh’s club captain for the new season.

Cross said: “It is a role that I’m enormously proud to have and I need to make sure I’m giving Mike the necessary support.

“I see myself as an ambassador for the club, but also to aid Mike in all of the off-the-field duties. I’ve been fortunate enough to have been club captain for the past two seasons and I’m delighted to have been asked to do it again.

“Every year, I feel my understanding of the role has improved, so this season should be my most efficient year.”

Blair, who has also captained Scotland, is looking forward to leading the team again during the forthcoming campaign.

He said: “I’m delighted to be asked to captain Edinburgh again. I enjoyed being captain last year and I think we are building a good core of leaders within the squad. That makes my job easier.

“We have improved over the past two years and now we want to improve again.”

Allister Hogg also retains his role as the team’s vice captain.

New head coach Rob Moffat said: “I thought Mike, Simon and Ally all did very well last season in a three-man leadership group.

“We are lucky that we have so many players willing to put their hands up and take responsibility. The leadership amongst the players is a team effort and everyone understands their role.

“This is all part of the team’s development and I believe we are maturing into an experienced team with growing game management skills.”