Former Wallabies skipper Rocky Elsom has been confirmed as NSW captain for the coming Super Rugby season.

The 28-year-old first led the Waratahs back in 2007, and will take on the role full-time as he makes his return to the club after two seasons at the Brumbies.

Elsom takes over the reins from retired veteran Phil Waugh, who has led the Waratahs for the past five years.

New coach Michael Foley was looking at a number of candidates including Dan Vickerman and Berrick Barnes, but in the end Elsom’s leadership qualities couldn’t be ignored.

Elsom captained the Wallabies for three years before he was replaced by James Horwill for the World Cup.

The flanker is one of the most respected competitors in rugby and has played 71 Tests since his Wallabies debut in 2005.