And the 29-year-old is no stranger to the Six Nations, having made his debut in the tournament against France back in 2006 but will lead Scotland for the first time in the competition when he takes his side to the Stade de France on February 5.

Robinson said: “Al’s leadership on and off the field was a key element to our success in Argentina and, since his return from knee surgery, the quality of both his personal displays and the way he has galvanised the Glasgow side, especially over the last month, has been really pleasing.

“I have spoken about the importance of broadening the influence of leaders throughout the side and Rory Lawson, Mike Blair and Chris Cusiter have all led the side well.”

Kellock took on the Scotland captaincy when Chris Cusiter was injured at Murrayfield against Australia in the autumn of 2009 and piloted Scotland to that epic win – the first over the Wallabies in 27 years.

Scotland go into their match against France having won five of their last six games, a sequence which has seen them triumph in Ireland for the first time in 12 years and defeat world champions South Africa en route to rising to seventh in the IRB’s world rankings.

Kellock, who has won 27 caps, said: “To get the chance to captain Scotland for the opening Six Nations game is huge.

“I was delighted to make the squad, especially after being out for almost six months with my knee after Argentina, and now to be named as captain, is a real highlight, particularly with the competition for places.”