Chiefs Super rugby head coach Coach Colin has announced that lock Brodie Retallick will join loose forward Sam Cane as co-captain of the Chiefs for the upcoming Super Rugby season.
Cooper said Cane and Retallick both lead by example and hold a huge amount of respect among the team.
“Sam and Brodie have been a part of the Chiefs team for a number of years now. They both bring great values, work ethic and leadership to our team.
“Brodie has earnt a huge amount of respect among the player and management group. With his consistent performance leadership, he is a natural fit to work with Sam.
“Like Brodie, Sam is very experienced and well respected by our players and management. We have no doubt together they will drive our team performance both on and off the field,” said Cooper.
27 year old Retallick will join Cane who has co-captained the team since 2016. Retallick has been a formidable member of the Chiefs since his debut in 2012, and played his role in the Chiefs 2012 and 2013 Super Rugby title wins alongside Cane.
Just shy of a 100 caps for the Chiefs Retallick has been a proven leader on the field with his power, athleticism and rugged defence. The 2.04m lock has notable attacking ability and collected the 2018 IRP Try of the Year at the 2018 World Rugby Awards for his outstanding try against the Wallabies.
Retallick humbled by the announcement said he was excited to lead a great pack of young men alongside Cane.
“I am privileged to be able to co-captain alongside Sam. It is a huge honour to have the role and definitely a big responsibility but one I am really looking forward to,” said Retallick.
Cane has co-captained alongside Charlie Ngatai and Aaron Cruden for the past three seasons and has continued to thrive as a leader of the Chiefs both on and off the field. With a 106 caps to his name Cane continues to lead from the front with his strong work ethic and knowledge of the game. His return to the field will be welcomed near the end of April.
The Chiefs will play their first pre-season match against the Blues in Kaikohe this Saturday afternoon at 3.00pm before heading to Brisbane to play the Queensland Reds on Friday 8 February.
The 2019 Super Rugby season for the Chiefs will kick off on Friday 15 February at 7.35pm at FMG Stadium Waikato.
