Wales flanker Sam Warburton has expressed his delight at being named the British and Irish Lions captain for their tour in Australia this summer.

The 24-year-old was announced as the skipper by coach Warren Gatland on the day that the 37-man squad was announced.

"Warren gave me a call a week ago on Sunday so it's been nine or 10 days since I found out," said Warburton. "It's been the hardest secret I ever had to keep, but I kept it in.

"It's unbelievable, it's an accolade which very few people can achieve. To be able to do this is an honour. Obviously it will be new for me. I'll learn along the way.

"There's a good Welsh contingent of leaders who I can rely on and I'm sure there are other experienced members and I'll need their help along the way. I'm looking forward to squad assembling on the 13th. I'll just continue to do what I do for Wales, I guess that's why Warren chose me."

Toulon's Jonny Wilkinson has been left out of the squad, as has England captain Chris Robshaw.