Anasta: Mini-me for Roosters skipper
BRAITHANASTAHAS anointed fellow veteran Anthony Minichiello as themanto replace him as Roosters skipper next season.
Anasta will join Wests Tigers next year, leaving coach Brian Smith with the task of finding a new leader for a young side.
There will be no shortage of potential candidates with Mitchell Aubusson, Mitchell Pearce, Jared Waerea-hargreaves, Martin Kennedy, Samperrett and Jake Friend likely to be considered.
However, Anasta believes the time is right for Minichiello, who recently re-signed with the Tricolours, to lead the team.
‘‘He’s done so much for the place and on the field, it would be fitting for him to have the captaincy,’’ Anasta said.
‘‘Having a young squad, you don’t want to be rushing a young guy if he’s not ready. That would be a key factor. Mini is there next year and I know he’d love to captain the club. ‘‘Because of his experience and what he’s achieved, not just at the Roosters but in the game, he’d be No 1 for mine.’’
Minichiello has achieved almost every conceivable honour in the game, including winning a premiership and representing his state and country. The Roosters, having lost four of their past five games, are attempting to bounce back when they host Canterbury at Allianz Stadium tomorrow night.
Warriors mid-season recruit Krisnan Inu is likely to make his debut for a Bulldogs side sitting in seventh position on the ladder.
Anasta could be switched to the back row for the clash with Smith believed to be considering partnering Daniel Mortimer alongside Pearce in the halves.