Stephen Moore and Christian Lealiifano have been named Brumbies co-captains for 2016.
Wallabies skipper Moore retains the captaincy for the second year in a row, heading into his final season with the Brumbies.
Lealiifano, who recently re-signed with the Brumbies until 2018, will lead the side for the first time and said he was looking forward to learning off Moore as a joint leader this season.
The playmaker had this week reiterated his commitment to the Brumbies and the Wallabies, after extending his contract for a further two years and his appointment is a nod to the esteem in which he is held.
“The opportunity to become the 14th captain of the club I joined as a teenager is an incredibly humbling honour, ” he said.
“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."
Moore is one of the most respected skippers in the Super Rugby scene, also holding the national captaincy.
The 32-year-old has led the Brumbies out 18 times and said he was proud to be appointed again.
“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. ”
Brumbies coach Stephen Larkham said the pair’s exceptional motivational tendencies made them the obvious choice as leaders.
“Stephen and Christian are exceptional leaders for this group, who have both earned the right to captain the Brumbies, ” he 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 their experience and influence was invaluable for the younger crop of Brumbies coming through.
“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 open their Super Rugby season against the Hurricanes at GIO Stadium on February 26.
