Cape Town - All Blacks lock Patrick Tuipulotu has been named as the Blues captain for the upcoming 2020 Super Rugby season.
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Tuipulotu was the co-captain in 2019 and assumes sole captaincy of the team for this year.
The 26-year-old has played 67 times for the Blues since making his debut and while he has also earned 25 caps for the All Blacks.
Blues head coach Leon MacDonald said that Tuipulotu was their first choice as leader of the team.
“It is a role he co-shared with Blake Gibson last season but Blake is keen to prioritise his on-field endeavours this year, after he has battled through injuries in recent seasons,” he said.
“Patrick is a standout international player and a critical part of our pack on the field.
“Off the field he is massively respected. He may be quiet-spoken, but when Patrick speaks, everyone listens.”
Tuipulotu is humbled and honoured to accept the role as captain.
“It is a privilege to be leader of this club and this team and a role I do not take lightly,” he said.
“I am driven to lead a group of guys who are hard-working and very proud to live in this great city and represent the Blues.
“While I have the honour of captaining this team, there are a number of experienced players who are leaders in this club. And we are all focussed on being the best we can be and at the same time continue to love this game.”