Leinster Reveal Captain For New Season

Leinster Rugby Head Coach Leo Cullen has this morning confirmed that Isa Nacewa had been selected as Club Captain for the 2016/17 season.

Nacewa was initially appointed Club Captain last season on a temporary basis when Kevin McLaughlin was forced to retire from the game after only one round of the Guinness PRO12. The appointment was made permanent for the remainder of the season after the Rugby World Cup.

Commenting on the appointment Cullen said,

“Isa made a superb contribution to the club on his return last season. He stepped up brilliantly in Kev’s absence and then just grew into the role as the season went on.

“He is a perfect role model for the younger players but is also held in the highest regard by the senior members in our squad. He has a special connection with this club and with the supporters and we all look forward to seeing him back in action.”

The former Fiji international scored nine tries in 23 games upon his return to Leinster colours last season but missed out on a place in the Guinness PRO12 Final against Connacht due to an arm injury.

Speaking about the appointment and the injury that ended his season the 34 year old back said,

“I’m delighted to be appointed captain again. This club means a lot to me and my family and I’m looking forward to the season now and to leading the lads again.

“The body feels great. It was definitely worst case scenario in terms of how the season ended but the beauty of the timing of the injury is that I was here for the whole of the off-season and the planning of the pre-season. That included the review of the season, what went well, what needs to be better. So the body is in great shape. It’s been a good exciting pre-season and it’s been great having Charlie Higgins here. A new voice adding to the club.”