Mortlock takes Rebels reins

[TRF_Cymro]

Former Australia skipper Stirling Mortlock has been confirmed as the inaugural captain of the Melbourne Rebels.

The 33-year-old, who led Australia in 29 Tests and at the 2007 Rugby World Cup, will be assisted by former Wales No.8 and Gloucester skipper Gareth Delve, who has been named vice captain.

"It's a unique challenge, but one I'm looking forward to," Mortlock said."For us as a group we want to be competitive and do Melbourne proud both on and off the field."

Mortlock, who has battled a serious back injury in the past few seasons, made his first appearance in a Rebels jersey during the club's 42-27 victory over Fiji in Ballarat last Saturday.

Coach Rod Macqueen has been pleased with Mortlock's progress since off-season surgery and backed him to lead from the front during the club's first Super campaign.

"He's got a new lease of life. He's been playing injured for a couple of years, so for him to have the operation and then come back from that by getting his strength and fitness back, hopefully we've got the new model," Macqueen said.

"One of the things a coach looks for is people who are going to be in the side regularly, as we said from day one it's been really important who our leaders were going to be and we've put a great deal of thought into picking the right people.

"Both are held in very high esteem and are good people in their own right. Stirling's commitment to Melbourne and the Rebels has been fantastic and Gareth has the respect of the team."

The Rebels complete their trial campaign against seven-time Super Rugby champions the Crusaders at AAMI Park on Saturday, their final hit-out before hosting the Waratahs in their first Super Rugby match on February 18.

http://www.espnscrum.com/super-rugby-2011/rugby/story/133538.html​

 

[Teh Mite]

At his age, I hope he's prepared to never win a game again!

 

[markshaw]

Outstanding player, don't think hes lost much over the years in terms of skill and strength

 

[TRF_Olyy]

He was always going to be captain, imo
Good to see Delve at VC

 

[TRF_stormer2010]

At his age, I hope he's prepared to never win a game again!

My money is on the Rebels winning their last game of the season against the Force. And only that. They miss the Lions and play the Cheetahs in Bloem. I think the Highlanders and Brumbies are the only otherteams against which they stand a chance. Unless they catch the Stormers off guard in Melbourne. Could well happen and the Stormers don't travel well in Aus.

 

[Gavin]

The evil wizard was always going to be Captain as long as he was fit in time for the first match. I hope for his sake he makes it into the World Cup squad after a stronger Super15 performance.

 

[Shaggy]

Could be an old boys reunion in the midfield in week 3 when they play the Chiefs ... Mortlock and Tana Umaga

 

[Nat]

Im a Reds fan but seriously how good is this Melb side? Can't wait to see them play NSW and flog 'em!

 

[Nat]

My only concern for the Rebels is depth, a few injuries to key players and I think they would struggle.

 

[Amobokoboko]

He will do what he needs to do. Annoy other teams and steal the victory.