A surprised Steven Luatua has replaced the injured Jerome Kaino as Blues captain for the remainder of the Super Rugby season.
Kaino will miss the final five games after injuring his finger during their 41-24 win over the Western Force in Auckland on Saturday, their second win in 11 games.
All Blacks flanker Luatua, 24, takes the helm ahead of Friday's game against the Rebels in Melbourne.
The 14-Test forward, who hasn't been skipper before, gets the nod ahead of former captain Keven Mealamu, the veteran All Blacks hooker who endorsed Luatua's promotion.
Luatua has faced a battle to start games this season, coming off the bench against the Force after rising teenage flanker Akira Ioane started and excelled in a barnstorming performance.
The captaincy offer this week from coach Sir John Kirwan caught Luatua by surprise.
"I was in a bit of shock and lost for words. Growing up as a kid in the region, this is something you aspire to," he said.
"I want to finish with a 100 per cent record now I have the armband and I want the team to play the best footy they can."
Meanwhile, injuries to Kaino, flanker Luke Braid (concussion) and fullback Charles Piutau (knee) and the loss of flanker Blake Gibson to the New Zealand under-20 team has opened the door to three newcomers to join the Blues squad as cover - utility back Matt McGahan and forwards Jack Ram and Airi Hunt.
Share
