Rugby: Shoemark to lead Hawke's Bay

Midfield back Jason Shoemark has been appointed Hawke's Bay captain for this season's Air NZ Cup rugby competition.

Shoemark has significant captaincy experience at provincial and national age group level and led the Highlanders in several matches in this year's Super 14.

He replaced halfback Danny Lee, who guided Hawke's Bay before taking up a contract with Welsh club Newport.

Shoemark's promotion is reward for the contribution he has made to Hawke's Bay's stay in the top division.

"His vast experience has added a real solidity and calmness to what two years ago was a very young and inexperienced backline," coach Peter Russell said.

"His midfield generalship has been a major factor in the rise to national prominence for the likes of Zac Guildford and Israel Dagg."

Hawke's Bay's opening Cup match is against Auckland in Napier on August 1.

- NZPA