Kyle Brown has stepped down as the Blitzboks' skipper, with Philip Snyman appointed as the new Springbok Sevens captain.

After five seasons as captain of the side, Brown will instead settle into a more supportive role to the younger leaders in the squad.

'We already had a strong leadership group in the squad and Philip is a natural leader of men, so it was an easy choice. He will do well, I have no doubt,' Blitzboks coach Neil Powell said.

Brown, who has played in 56 World Rugby Sevens Series tournaments to date, said the time was right to step aside as captain of the team.

'It is has been an immense privilege that I have had for the better part of five years and we are in a great position to bring some new, fresh ideas into the role. I discussed the move with the coach shortly after our return from the Olympics and we made the decision in the last week.'

The Springbok Sevens team for the opening tournament of the 2016-17 World Rugby Sevens Series in Dubai will be named on Friday.

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