Claassens has eight international caps for South Africa

Bath have named scrum-half Michael Claassens as their captain for the 2009-10 season.

South African-born Claassens joined the club from Super 14 side the Cheetahs in the summer of 2007.

"At first it wasn't an easy decision. It was a massive honour and privilege but I did have to think about it," admitted the 26-year-old.

Claassens has made 54 appearances and scored 11 tries for Bath and has eight international caps for the Springboks.

He originally signed on a two-year deal but last year extended that contract by a further two years keeping him at the club until 2011.

"I think by the end of last season I had already accepted that he would be captain this season," said head coach Steve Meehan.

"He will be a very good leader and is somebody who will share the responsibility of that throughout the team as well."

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