England star Ellis Genge has succeeded Tom Youngs as Leicester Tigers captain ahead of the 2021-22 season.
The 26-year-old prop, who has 30 caps for the Red Roses, joined the Tigers from Bristol in 2016 and succeeds Youngs, who has led the side since the 2014-15 season.
Genge has made 89 appearances since the move, scoring nine tries, and has also become a vital part of Eddie Jones’ England squad.
The front-rower featured in all five matches of the Red Roses’ 2020 Guinness Six Nations triumph, scoring a crucial try against Scotland at BT Murrayfield, and also played every game for England during this year’s Championship.
Tigers head coach Steve Borthwick said: “His ability to connect and bring people together is a very powerful strength of his.
“He connects with international players, overseas players, (players from) different backgrounds, young players, old players.
“He wants to improve as a rugby player and is very serious about being a really impactful leader. With that in mind, this is a really positive step.”
Genge will be assisted in the role by vice-captain Hanro Liebenberg as the Tigers look to build on a sixth-placed finish last season.
They begin the new campaign against Exeter Chiefs on September 18 and Genge is looking forward to taking on the leadership role.
The England man tweeted: “Thanks for all the kind messages.
“I’ve learned a lot off of younger in the past five seasons that will help me along this path.
“I will give everything I have to add to the great history of this club, on and off the field.”
Former England hooker Youngs stood down from the role at the end of last season.
