Halfback Augustine Pulu has been confirmed as the new captain of the Blues for the 2018 season.
The 27-year-old replaces James Parsons at the helm, while both the hooker and All Black Jerome Kaino will join him in a senior leadership group.
"Both James and Jerome are sidelined for some time from surgeries and I wanted our captain to take the reins on the paddock from day one of training," said coach Tana Umaga.
"Of course both James and Jerome will continue to play invaluable leadership roles in this team and will be key contributors in all aspects.
"[Pulu] has proven captaincy experience in the Mitre 10 Cup and will add a fresh spark to the team."
Pulu has played 64 games in Super Rugby as well as representing New Zealand in Sevens at the Rio Olympics and has two All Black caps.
"It’s an honour to lead a club like the Blues. We have a good bunch of guys returning and some exciting new players coming in," said the Counties representative.
"With the help of the leadership group, I want to mould them into a strong team.
"We have to work so hard every day, on and off the field. I believe we can win the Super Rugby title – that’s my goal for the team."
Newshub.
