Premiership: Ebbw Vale make captaincy decision as key man signs up for more – Yahoo Eurosport UK
EBBW Vale will still be run by his hookers in the next season after Joe Franchi and Rhys Francis were confirmed as co-captains.
The pair of stalwarts shared the duties in 2022/23 as the Steelmen went from Premiership strugglers to nearly reaching the play-offs.
With Franchi having 167 appearances to his name and Francis 119, head coach Jason Strange believes the duo are a perfect fit as captains.
“It worked out so well last year; both were excellent on and off the pitch and embody what we want at the club”, said the coach.
“Both are hard-working players with a great attitude, who hold themselves and others to the highest standards and expectations.”
Franchi, who made 18 appearances last season and scored three tries, is happy to continue leading the team at Eugene Cross Park when he gets the nod for the second jersey.
“It’s a great honor to be named captain for another year,” he said.
“I think the partnership between me and Rhys worked very well last year, and it was a no-brainer when ‘Chippy’ [Strange] He asked us to do the same again this year.
“I’m sure Rhys will agree that our job is also made easier by having so many good leaders within the team who have a lot of experience in the Premiership and at regional level. I’m very excited to see what this group can achieve this season.” “. ”
Francis, who made 21 starts and missed twice last season, added: “Once again it is a great honor to be asked to co-captain the team.
“The progress we made last year, both on and off the pitch, was a testament to every single person involved at Ebbw Vale.
“Hopefully I can continue to play a small part in the club’s journey and ultimately end the season with some silver!”
Ebbw, who begins his Premiership campaign against Merthyr at the Wern on 2 September before a home opener against Pontypridd seven days later, received another boost after retaining his team’s core.
Former dragons fly-half has also committed to the club after an impressive 2022/23 season in which he played in all 24 games and finished second on the Premiership points charts behind Llandovery’s Jack Maynard.
The 23-year-old, who spent time on loan at RGC when he was with the Dragons, said: “I’m really looking forward to starting the new season and hopefully building on after an enjoyable campaign last year.
“The club has great vision both on and off the pitch and it’s something I hope I can contribute to.
“There is a great group of people involved within the club who are fighting for a trophy this coming season.”
