Neath will have a new captain to lead them into the defence of their Principality Premiership and Play-Off titles this season.
The former Newport, Coventry and Cardiff flanker Gareth Gravell takes over the captain’s arm band for the Welsh All Blacks and will have his first competitive outing when his side faces Glamorgan Wanderers this weekend.
The 29-year-old has already had experience of leading Newport to the Premiership title back in 2004 and will now be hoping to hold onto the crown at Neath.
A product of Burry Port, Gravell won Wales Under 21 honours and was an integral part of the Neath teams that completed the league and cup double in 2008, retained the cup in 2009 and achieved another double last season.
“I feel very honoured to be offered this role as I am very much aware of the great traditions of Neath rugby and the top names on the captains’ board that I am following,” said Gravell.
“We have a good squad here at The Gnoll, the team is tight-knit and team spirit is great. We also have some top people off the field and excellent coaches who are constantly challenging us.
“We are all looking forward to the season and having strengthened in a few positions – not least in my own back-row area – we are looking to improve and build upon last year’s double success.”
Neath coach Patrick Horgan is delighted to have Gravell in charge and believes he was the natural choice to lead the side.
“It is a role he has already carried out on many occasions before with great success. His leadership qualities are well proven, he is an honest player who will demand high standards from all around him,” said Horgan.
