GEORGE Gregan has promised to tone down his badgering of referees now that he is Wallabies captain.

Gregan's seven year international career has been marked by some superb performances - especially in defence - but he hasn't endeared himself to referees with his constant chirping about perceived illegalities by his opponents.

Asked if he'd "tone it down" as the new national captain, Gregan said: "Yeah, I think you've got to be responsible there.

"You've got to work with the referee. Together, yourself, the opposition and the referee have to manage the day and I'm in a good frame of mind to do that.

"I shouldn't have too many problems with that and I'll work hard to make sure I work well with the referees."

Gregan, the vice-captain since 1997, was the logical choice to succeed the recently-retired John Eales.

The holder of 68 Test caps and unchallenged for his halfback spot, he has shown his captaincy ability by leading the ACT Brumbies to the Super 12 title in his first season as skipper.

Zambia-born Gregan, whose middle name Musarurwa means "Chosen One", said the inclusive leadership style developed under Eales would make it easier for him to take over at the helm of the world champion.

"I've been part of the leadership team which has been very important in the Wallabies' success over the past few years.

"Going on my limited experience with the Brumbies this year it's probably more to do with the on-field decisions.

"Instead of feeding ideas to the captain, I'll be getting those ideas thrown at me and then making the final decision.

"I like the extra responsibility and I'm looking forward to it."

Coach Eddie Jones, who appointed Gregan captain of the Brumbies, said the halfback's intensity was a great attribute.

"George has a very focused mind. Certainly at the Brumbies I thought his captaincy was very intense and brought the team to a new level of performance."

Jones said the "void" left by Eales' departure would be filled but that there would also be a "period of adjustment".

That adjustment period was supposed to start with a Test against Canada on October 27, followed by a relatively easy run against rugby minnow Spain before a tough series of Tests against England, France and Wales.

But the Test against Canada is almost certain to be cancelled because Canada's top 60 players are on strike over the sacking of Australia-born national coach Dave Clark.

ARU managing director John O'Neill said the world champion would not play a "third-rate" Canadian team. He has given Rugby Canada until Friday to guarantee a full-strength team otherwise he will unilaterally cancel the Test.

O'Neill said he was in discussions with the English Rugby Union over the addition of a warm-up game in England instead.

The 30-man squad named for the tour was predictable, with Queensland inside centre Steve Kefu the only new player.

Kefu, 21, and the younger brother of No.8 Toutai Kefu, has played only a dozen Super 12 games but has impressed Jones as a potential Test player of the future. (AAP)