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Former Wallabies skipper Rocky Elsom has been confirmed as NSW captain for the coming Super Rugby season.
The 28-year-old first led the Waratahs back in 2007, and will take on the role full-time as he makes his return to the club after two seasons at the Brumbies.
Elsom takes over the reins from retired veteran Phil Waugh, who has led the Waratahs for the past five years.
New coach Michael Foley was looking at a number of candidates including Dan Vickerman and Berrick Barnes, but in the end Elsom’s leadership qualities couldn’t be ignored.
Drew Mitchell, Benn Robinson, Dan Vickerman and Rob Horne join the leadership team with Elsom.
Elsom captained the Wallabies for three years before he was replaced by James Horwill for the World Cup.
The flanker is one of the most respected competitors in rugby and has played 71 Tests since his Wallabies debut in 2005.
Waratahs Head Coach Michael Foley, “We have spent the past months in discussions with senior players in an effort to determine the best man for the job.
“There will never be a perfect replacement for retired skipper Phil Waugh however after defining the role and what it was the players expected and wanted from a captain, Rocky was the stand out candidate.”
As part of the leadership team involved in the process, Benn Robinson believes the team has found the right man for the role. “It was important for the players to have someone who represented the best interests of the team.
“Due to the nature of the modern game we will need to call on different players to captain the side during the season,” said Foley, who will be relying on the strength of the eight-man leadership group already in place.
“In Rocky we have someone who can fly the flag, as well as personify what the leadership group and ultimately the team is all about, on and off the field.”
Join The Roar rugby editor Christy Doran, former Wallaby Matt Toomua and a cast of regular and special guests as they look at the biggest issues in the game on The Roar Rugby Podcast. If you’re looking for great odds on the next game check out Aussie bookmaker PlayUp. Chances are you’re about to lose. Set a deposit limit.