Four-time All-Star Cluxton, who has previous experience of captaining Ireland to International Rules success over Australia, said he was thrilled with the news.

"I'm delighted, absolutely delighted," the 31-year-old net minder said of his appointment.

"I had a good think about it and Jim assured me about my role so I was happy enough to take it on board. Hopefully I can do the job that is requested of me.

"To be honest I just put my head down and train as hard as I can. If Jim thinks that's leadership - well I'll take it on my shoulders, take it on board. There's so many leaders in that dressing room there's no need to have one particular one.

"I'm only learning and obviously Jim is going to help me and guide me along if he thinks I need to buck up on things."

On last night's display against the Rebels, Cluxton was happy with his side's performance as they claimed a six-point victory with a number of younger players impressing.

"I think they (Cork) were probably a bit off the pace tonight. We had a lot of guys that were itching to get games and obviously because Jim has come in they were given an opportunity to express themselves. Each fella has an opportunity to nail down a spot come the Championship."