The Blues, under new coach Leon MacDonald, have confirmed their co-captains for the upcoming 2019 Super Rugby season.
Flanker Blake Gibson and lock Patrick Tuipulotu will share the leadership responsibilities for the Auckland-based franchise, replacing Augustine Pulu, who is currently in Japan.
The pair have proven captaincy experience with Auckland in the Mitre 10 Cup, recently leading the province to a Premiership crown in 2018.
MacDonald, who replaced Tana Umaga as head coach last month, thinks the duo have what it takes to lead the Blues to the finals for the first time since 2011.
"It is a real benefit to have two players of this calibre who are from our region and are so committed to the club and the people we represent," MacDonald said.
"Blake and Patrick, together with all our 2019 squad and management group, are hungry for success and these two will get the team following them both on and off the field."
The Blues open their 2019 Super Rugby season against the Crusaders at Eden Park on February 16.
Newshub.
