All Blacks loose forward Luke Jacobson has been confirmed as new captain of the Chiefs.
Jacobson, 26, takes the reins of coach Clayton McMillan's side for the 2024 season, with incumbents Sam Cane (Japan) and Brad Weber (France) both playing offshore.
His appointment bucks a significant trend for the Chiefs, who have gone with co-captains for more than a decade.
"It's not really a role I search for, but one I'm bloody proud to fill," he said. "I'm looking forward to working with the team and doing everything we can to go that one step further this year."
Since his 2018 debut, Jacobson has been capped 63 times for the Chiefs and was a key part of the side that reached the finals of Super Rugby Aotearoa in 2021 and Super Rugby Pacific last year.
On top of his achievements at franchise level, Jacobson has also played 18 tests for New Zealand. He has also deputised for Cane and Weber in the past, and convinced McMillan he's the man to assume the role fulltime this year.
"Luke has always been viewed as a future Chiefs captain and is primed to make his presence felt in this key role," said McMillan. "He will have learned plenty following the deep footprints of some recent outstanding leaders, but he is his own man and will no doubt cut his own path."
"He epitomises the qualities we look for in a Chief, is highly respected by staff and peers, and builds a good rapport with officials, whilst his playing ability speaks for itself.
"I can't wait to see him flourish with this added responsibility."
Jacobson will lead the Chiefs on their pre-season tour to Japan, before they kickstart Super Rugby Pacific 2024 against the champion Crusaders on February 23 in a rematch of last year's finalists.
