The 25-year-old, who has won 40 caps since his debut in 1999, takes over from recently-retired scrum-half Bryan Redpath and he will be supported by hooker Gordon Bulloch - the squad’s vice-captain.

Paterson told the official SRU website: "I’m delighted and deeply honoured. It’s an exciting few weeks ahead and the team approach to leadership where we have a group of players involved, some with a lot of experience, underlines that it’s about the team, not individuals.

"During the match the game takes care of itself really. Captaincy will not change the way I approach games."

New coach Matt Williams said: "Chris and Gordon will captain the side in the next 12 months. We see it as a partnership. They have a series of lieutenants on the field around them who will be part of the leadership group.

"Chris is an outstanding player, assured of his position. His character as a man and his conduct as a non-smoker and non-drinker - but still with a great sense of humour - is a great example for the team and for the nation as someone we can look up to."

Scotland squad:

Forwards: Gordon Bulloch (Glasgow Rugby, vice-captain), Simon Cross (Edinburgh Rugby), Bruce Douglas (The Borders), Stuart Grimes (Newcastle Falcons), Nathan Hines (Edinburgh Rugby), Allister Hogg (Edinburgh Rugby), Gavin Kerr (Leeds Tykes), Cameron Mather (Glasgow Rugby), Scott Murray (Edinburgh Rugby), Rob Russell (Saracens), Tom Smith (Northampton Saints), Simon Taylor (Edinburgh Rugby), Jason White (Sale Sharks).

Backs: Mike Blair (Edinburgh Rugby), Chris Cusiter (The Borders), Simon Danielli (Bath Rugby), Andrew Henderson (Glasgow Rugby), Ben Hinshelwood (Worcester), Brendan Laney (Edinburgh Rugby), Derrick Lee (Edinburgh Rugby), Gareth Morton (The Borders), Dan Parks (Glasgow Rugby), Chris Paterson (Edinburgh Rugby, captain), Tom Philip (Edinburgh Rugby), Nikki Walker (The Borders), Simon Webster (Edinburgh Rugby).

Kick-off: Saturday, February 14, 16.00 GMT

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