Swanepoel has been named as the skipper in the absence of the Proteas batter, Pite van Biljon, who has been declared fit enough to start training.

Swanepoel joined the Knights from the Northern Cape Heat where he led the Division Two team with aplomb last season.

Swanepoel told OFM Sport that he feels it’s a role that comes naturally to him.

“From a leadership point of view, I've got to thank the CEO, Johan van Heerden, and the coach, JP Triegaardt, for backing me with this huge responsibility.

“We know what is lying ahead of us and there are big challenges waiting for us this season. The guys are ready for these challenges.

“We are really looking forward to being back on the park soon, while we are also highly disappointed with what happened to Pite, but nevertheless, it is nothing that is in our control.”

The Knights will be travelling to Kimberley next week for four warm-up matches against the Heat.

Morgan Piek/OFM Sport