Moore and Lealiifano to captain Brumbies

Canberra Super Rugby franchise the Brumbies have announced that Wallabies captain Stephen Moore and Christian Lealiifano will co-captain the team in 2016.

Brumbies coach Stephen Larkham has decided on a joint leadership role which indicates how respected how respected Lealiifano is in the Brumbies squad.

Moore captained the Brumbies last season but as Lealiifano is already a mentor to the younger players in the squad.

Lealiifano , who debuted for the Brumbies in 2008, says he will gain invaluable experience working alongside the Wallabies skipper in a joint-leadership role.

“The opportunity to become the 14th captain of the club I joined as a teenager is an incredibly humbling honour.

“This place has played a big part in my life and in my journey growing up as well. I’m excited about what’s ahead and it’s an absolute privilege to be named co-captain of such an amazing club,” he said.

Wallabies skipper Stephen Moore is currently regarded as one of the world’s best captains. His bold and gutsy decision making when the game is on the line is a defining trait that has earned him praise and respect from peers across the globe.

Moore, the 81st Wallabies Captain, became the ACT Super Rugby franchise’s 10th captain when he led the side out against the Stormers in 2011. He has since captained the Brumbies 18 times. He says it is always an honour to lead the side onto the field.

“2016 will be my eighth year playing and living in Canberra, I’ve made a home here and it’s an honour to be able to represent the region in this way,” Moore said.

“We have a strong, enthusiastic playing group locked in for the 2016 season and I am looking forward to working closely with Christian to get the best out of this side every week.”

Head Coach Stephen Larkham says Moore and Lealiifano, who currently have 203 Brumbies caps between them, are an ideal choice as co-captains.

“Stephen and Christian are exceptional leaders for this group, who have both earned the right to captain the Brumbies,” Larkham said.

“Whether it’s at training, in team meetings or on game day, both players take it upon themselves to lift the rest of the squad when they need it,” Larkham said.

“Having players like Stephen and Christian to look up to and learn from is invaluable for younger members of the team. They lead from the front every day and aren’t afraid to make the tough calls when the game is on the line.

“I think that Stephen and Christian can learn a lot from each other and our team and our club can only benefit. It allows both players to really focus on our efforts on the field.”

The Brumbies first match of the 2016 Super Rugby season will be against the Hurricanes at GIO Stadium on Friday 26 February.