Matt Hodgson’s ability to lead by example convinced Michael Cheika to overlook several former Wallabies leaders for the captaincy against the Barbarians.

Western Force backrower Hodgson will lead Australia at Twickenham on Saturday with regular skipper Michael Hooper rested ahead of the Test matches in Europe.

New coach Cheika’s decision to pick Hodgson as captain came as somewhat of a surprise given the side to face Barbarians includes ex-captain James Horwill and former deputies Will Genia and Quade Cooper.

But the coach felt Hodgson should be rewarded for a stellar Super Rugby season as captain of the Western Force.

“The discipline and the belief they (the Force) showed in the way they played the game, that has to come from good leadership,” Cheika said on Thursday.

“It can’t come any other way and I think when he (Hodgson) comes into the Australian team he should get rewarded for that leadership.

“All those guys (Horwill, Genia and Cooper) came into mind but we’ll use a leadership team on the day and I’m sure they’ll all work together.

“You have to pick the guy you think will give the ultimate example that people want to follow and I think everyone can agree that Matt Hodgson’s that kind of guy.”

Hard-nosed flanker Hodgson, 33, takes the captaincy for the Barbarians match despite only recently breaking back into the Wallabies after a three-year absence.

Hodgson said he would draw on the experience of the likes of Horwill and Genia but look to stamp his own mark on the role.

“For me it’s about trying to lead from the front,” Hodgson said.

“Leading by example and trying to encourage people to be themselves and try things out there.”

“It’s a big honour. I feel really privileged to take the arm band for the first game under Cheik and lead the boys out.

“It’s the first opportunity to show what we’ve got so all 23 of us are going out there to put our hand up for next week (Test match against Wales) as well.”