Havili becomes first-ever backline player to captain the Crusaders

All Blacks utility back David Havili is the new Crusaders captain for this year’s Shop N Save Super Rugby Pacific season and will also be the first-ever backline player in history to Captain the Crusaders.

Havili takes over from All Blacks skipper Scott Barrett, with the Crusaders coach Rob Penney deeming it too demanding for the lock to hold both roles.

While talking about his selection as captain, Havili says it is very humbling and he was pretty blown away when Coach Penney approached him.

He says this is certainly the proudest moment he has had for a while as the Crusaders are all about community and he loves this team.

Coach Rob Penney says he is confident Havili will become a great captain as they have already seen him prove himself in this role over the last couple of years.

He adds that Havili is a man who cares deeply about the team and their way forward, and he is going to be exceptional.

Havili has played 128 games for the franchise since debuting in 2015 was named vice-captain in 2020 and has long been part of the Crusaders leadership group.

The 30-year-old has 30 international test caps for the All Blacks and has scored nine tries so far.

Source: RNZ