News

Whitelock appointed Canterbury skipper

July 07 2009

Flanker George Whitelock has been named as Canterbury's captain for this season's Air New Zealand Cup.

The 23-year-old recently played his first Test for the All Blacks when coming on as a replacement against Italy at AMI Stadium in Christchurch, where he also scored a try.

Whitelock has played 14 times for Canterbury and has 11 Crusaders caps to his name.

Whitelock says that he is proud to follow the legacy that past captains like Richie McCaw and Todd Blackadder have established for the red and blacks.

"It's a great honour to be named Canterbury captain," Whitelock said.

"Canterbury have produced some great captains in the past so to follow in their footsteps is a real privilege for me."

Canterbury coach Rob Penney said Whitelock's character and presence - both on and off the field - make him ideal captaincy material.

"George is a very mature guy and a great influence among any group," he said.

"He has all the attributes required to be a fine leader. He is also an outstanding player. We know he will do an exceptional job in this role."

Whitelock is one of three brothers in the 35-player Canterbury squad named last week. The other Whitelocks in the squad are centre Adam, 22, and lock Samuel, 20.

George captained the 2005 New Zealand U19 side and the New Zealand U21 side against Canada in 2007.

Canterbury's first match is against North Harbour on Saturday, August 1.