Highlanders appoint new co-captain

The Highlanders have named Luke Whitelock as their new co-captain for the upcoming 2019 Super Rugby season. Whitelock’s appointment as co-captain comes as a result of the 28-year-old’s distinguished professional career since debuting for Canterbury in 2011. “When I came down here in 2015, I just wanted to fit in and play good rugby, I never expected to be a co-captain,” Whitelock, who joins brother and Crusaders captain Sam as a Super Rugby skipper, said.

“When I think of some of the players who have captained this team in the past like Anton Oliver and Nasi Manu it’s pretty humbling to be given the opportunity. “Ash and Ben have done a great job over the last few seasons and I hope to carry that on this year.” Highlanders head coach Aaron Mauger reserved praise for both of his captains.

“Luke and Ben demand selection for us through the consistency of their performances week to week,” he said.

“Both players have a great temperament for the game and provide us leadership on and off the field.

“Having Lukey up front and Bender at the back provides us with a good balance of leadership on the park.”

Whitelock replaces hooker Ash Dixon as co-captain of the squad.

Dixon’s axing from the role is indicative of his ongoing struggle to maintain a starting position in the team, with four-test All Black Liam Coltman often the preferred option at hooker.

Whitelock will get his first chance to lead the side in his new role on Friday night, when the Highlanders open the Super Rugby season against the Chiefs at FMG Stadium Waikato in Hamilton.