The Highlanders have appointed James Lentjes as their new acting captain, with Ash Dixon and Aaron Smith taking over roles as vice captains. 28 year old flanker Lentjes had a good Super Rugby campaign for the 2019 season and will be taking over from last season’s co-captains Luke Whitelock and Ben Smith, both of which have since moved on to play in France. The new captain was part of the previous season’s leadership, and is regarded by many as a smart and strong leader who was able to overcome injury problems to take control of the Highlanders No 7 jersey for 2019.
Lentjes also revealed that he had been in discussions with senior members of the Highlanders’ playing group where he was looking for feedback before going on to confirm with Aaron Mauger that he would be accepting the new role. Talking about his appointment, Lentjes stated that the team had been supportive and gave him the confidence that they were in his corner. He added that they were happy for him to become captain, and that it’s a one-man job in terms of the captaincy itself, but that his team mates will be able to influence the decisions that he makes in the future.
The flanker had been offered the role of captain by Mauger last month, and he first decided to seek the opinions and thoughts of his fellow teams mates, which had reinforced the final decision made by the head coach.
| # | Site | Bonus | Bet | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |  | Ladbrokes |  | 5/5 | 100% Match up to $250 | Bet now Review |
| 2 |  | Palmerbet | | 4.9/5 | 100% Match | Bet now |
More About Gary Hicks
When it comes to knowing what’s going on, on the track, field or any other sporting arena, Gary Hicks is your man. With an almost unrivalled passion for journalism, sports and betting Gary decided to combine his love of all 3 and share his expertise with the world.
In the last few years Gary has risen through the ranks and prides himself on always keeping a finger on the pulse of what’s hot and happening in the sports betting world. Gary is the resident news expert at OnlineBettingNZ.co.nz and his articles make for invaluable fodder for any avid punter.
You May Also Like:
Tony Brown Primed For Highlanders Head Coach
Highlanders chief executive Roger Clark says it would be “silly” for the team not to consider approaching Tony Brown to assume the role of new head coach. And since the ….
Nathan Brown Says Auckland Move Unlikely
Newly appointed Warriors coach Nathan Brown says he’s very much looking forward to relocating to Auckland. But also, that he’s doubtful of whether this will prove practical as far as ….
Highlanders Show Aaron Mauger The Door
Departing head coach Aaron Mauger’s recently confirmed Highlanders marching order is probably a case of too little, too late. Despite the franchise having gotten off to a pretty slow 2020 ….
Payten Will Be Missed Says Warriors Star
Warriors halfback Chanel Harris-Tavita, on the topic of Todd Payten’s planned end-of-season departure, says it will be a sad day for him to see the back of the interim coach. ….
Jeff Probyn Says Hartley Memoire Is A Sham
Contrary to popular opinion, so says ex-England test prop Jeff Probyn, New Zealand-born Dylan Hartley wasn’t a true hard player while playing for the British side, but instead, a man ….