A South African forward will lead the Sale Sharks this season.
Ernst van Rhyn – who penned a new three-year deal with the club earlier this month – has been entrusted with the armband as Sale prepare to launch their Premiership campaign against Gloucester on Thursday.
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The former Western Province and Stormers lock succeeds England flank Ben Curry, whose international commitments mean his club game time will be limited.
Sale boss Alex Sanderson wasted little time in turning to the 28-year-old Capetonian to lead his side.
“It’s a huge privilege and a massive honour to be chosen to be captain of this club,” Van Rhyn said. “Over the past two years I’ve really enjoyed learning from some of the amazing leaders we’ve got at the club – guys like Ben Curry, George Ford, Rob du Preez and others are fantastic leaders and I’ve tried to take bits from each of them.
“But it’s also important for me to keep doing what I’m doing because that’s what has got me to this point. I know this role brings more responsibility, but I feel like I’m ready for that.”
Van Rhyn, who played for the Junior Springboks and led Western Province in the Currie Cup before moving north, has quickly earned the respect of his teammates in Manchester.
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Sanderson was full of praise for his new skipper.
“Ernie made an impression on us straight away with his ability on the field and his leadership off it. He leads by example, he’s respected by everyone at the club and I have no doubt that he’ll be a fantastic captain for us.”
Photo: David Rogers/Getty Images
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