Premiership-winning prop James Fisher-Harris has been named to lead the New Zealand Kiwis in their Pacific Championships campaign.
The 27-year-old Penrith star's captaincy appointment was announced on Saturday night in Auckland at a gathering attended by the full Kiwis and Kiwis 'A' squads, as well as past New Zealand captains including Ruben Wiki, Stephen Kearney, Adam Blair and Nathan Cayless.
Fisher-Harris, who has amassed 180 NRL appearances since debuting with the Panthers in 2016, takes over the captaincy from veteran Kiwi Jesse Bromwich who has called time on his international career.
“It’s such a privilege and honour to be named to lead my country,” Fisher-Harris said.
I’m proud to represent my family and the people from where I’m from (in Northland). It’ll be a special moment leading my teammates out against Toa Samoa at Eden Park.
James Fisher-Harris
Saturday's Test against Samoa won’t be Fisher-Harris’ first experience leading the Kiwis, having filled the role for Bromwich in last year’s Rugby League World Cup clash against Jamaica in Hull.
“James has grown into a wonderful leader during my time with the Kiwis,” Kiwis coach Michael Maguire said.
“He was a natural choice to become captain for this campaign. He’s so respected by all our players and staff alike, very much a leader whose actions do the talking.”
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