Blues reveal new captain for 2018

The Blues franchise has today revealed Augustine Pulu as the new captain for the 2018 Super Rugby season.

"It's an honour to lead a club like the Blues. We have a good bunch of guys returning and some exciting new players coming in," said Pulu. "With the help of the leadership group, I want to mould them into a strong team.

"I think we have made real progress in my time here and hope I can do my job as a player and as a captain for the Blues.

"We have to work so hard every day, on and off the field. I believe we can win the Super Rugby title – that's my goal for the team."

Pulu will head the Blues leadership group which includes previous captains Jerome Kaino and last season's captain James Parsons.

"Both James and Jerome are sidelined for some time from surgeries and I wanted our captain to take the reins on the paddock from day one of training," reasoned coach Tana Umaga.

"Of course both James and Jerome will continue to play invaluable leadership roles in this team and will be key contributors in all aspects.

"Augie has proven captaincy experience in the Mitre-10 Cup and will add a fresh spark to the team."

Augustine Pulu has proven to push the boundaries of innovation this year, ripping off the goal post pads to ensure the opposition would not be able to score at the base of them.

The Blues may benefit from his left-field thinking as captain after the side finished ninth last year. The Auckland-based franchise hasn't made the playoffs since 2011.