The Queensland Reds have announced Liam Wright and Tate McDermott will co-captain the side in 2022.
McDermott will become the 122nd man to captain the side, having made his debut in 2018, establishing himself as one of the premier scrum-halves in the country.
He takes over the position from James O'Connor, who filled in as captain for the majority of Super Rugby AU following an injury to Wright.
Wright retains his leadership position after first being appointed to the role in 2020 as a 22-year-old.
Reds coach Brad Thorn believes the pair, who made their debut together in 2018, are perfect examples of 'Reds Men' and have the necessary qualities to lead the club into the future.
"Congratulations to both Liam and Tate on their appointment as co-captains for 2022," he said in a statement
“They both embody what it means to be a 'Reds Man' – they're humble and hard-working who uphold the standards of the maroon jersey.
“Liam and Tate both made their Queensland debuts in the same match together back in 2018. They've now played more than 50 games for Queensland and have represented their country.
“It's an honour and a privilege to lead your team into battle. They have the respect of the playing group and also the staff. They will do their state proud.
“It’s important to recognise the job James O’Connor did last year. He was both the captain and one of our on-field drivers which was a big commitment and responsibility.
“There are more leaders within our team, plus players with emerging leadership qualities too which is great for the future growth of our program."
Wright and McDermott were 'humbled' by the appointment, looking to build on what was a historic 2021.
"I am incredibly humbled and honoured to be announced as co-captain of the Queensland Reds in 2022, alongside my good mate Tate McDermott," Wright said. “We proudly carry with us the legacy and history of Rugby in this great state.
“I would like to thank the coaches and players for their ongoing faith and support, as well as our loyal supporters and fans.
“The privilege and challenge that befalls us is great, but we plan to serve this team to the best of our abilities in pursuit of excellence and success.
“In doing so, we aim to embody the values of mateship, toughness, and resilience that is being a Queenslander,” said Wright.
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McDermott added: “It is a tremendous honour to be announced as a co-captain of the Queensland Reds alongside Liam Wright.
“To be etched into the fabric of Queensland Rugby, in company with many former great captains of the game, is something my family and I will forever treasure. Upon reflection of my initial chat with Thorny, our job now turns to unleashing the untapped potential within our side.
“We are fortunate to have a core group of experienced players around us who have tremendous skin in the game, and whom we will rely upon heavily to continue with the team first approach we took into our 2021 Super Rugby AU title-winning campaign.
“It would be naive to suggest that the challenge facing us this year isn’t significant, however with Round One of the inaugural Super Rugby Pacific almost upon us it is a challenge we are ready to embrace for Queensland."
