Highlanders announce co-captains for 2025 season

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Wing Timoci Tavatavanawai and loose forward Hugh Renton will lead a side looking to build on last season and push for success.

Coach Jamie Joseph has worked the co-captain regime before, and Nasi Manu and Ben Smith led his championship-winning side in 2015.

Joseph said he had confidence in the chosen pair for 2025 and was sure they could share the responsibility and workload of leadership.

"Jim [Timoci] and Hugh embody the qualities we are looking for in our leaders – passion, commitment, and the ability to inspire others with their actions or words.

"They bring unique strengths and they will complement each other well as co-captains. I'm excited to see them lead the team through what promises to be an exciting season."

The pair would have the support of a strong leadership group.

"Leadership is a collective thing and this team has already indicated which direction they all want to head this season. Our leadership group will have the joint responsibility of helping Jim and Hugh uphold the standards of performance and integrity of the team on and off the field."


Fijian-born Tavatavanawai said it was a privilege to be asked to lead the team with Renton. He joined the Highlanders last year after two seasons with Moana Pasifika. He has become known for his explosive power, ability to break tackles and force turnovers. In recent seasons, he has been a regular starter for the Highlanders and Tasman Mako.

"I am looking forward to contributing to the team's growth and success in any way I can, and working closely with my co-captain, teammates and the coaches."

Renton said his appointment humbled him. He joined the Highlanders in 2021, and as an experienced loose forward with a high work rate and tactical awareness, he will put his drive and hard-hitting defence into the team's game plan. His leadership will be essential in the side's defensive roles.

"I'm excited to work with Jim and the leadership group to help the team achieve our collective goals. It's a role I take very seriously, and I am looking forward to the responsibility of co-captaining a team that means a lot to me."