Rugby: Smith confirmed as 'Canes captain

Conrad Smith. Photo / Getty Images

The Hurricanes have confirmed All Blacks centre Conrad Smith will captain the team next year.

The veteran All Blacks centre has been given the job ahead of loose forward Victor Vito, who many were tipping to lead the side.

He takes over from Andrew Hore, who left in controversial circumstances at the end of last season.

Smith, who is currently on leave after the Rugby World Cup, made his debut for the franchise in 2004 against the Cats.

That year he also made his first appearance for the All Blacks against Italy and has since then accumulated 66 and 55 caps for the Hurricanes and All Blacks respectively.

Smith's experience and leadership were clear during the World Cup as one of the most senior players in the side and the backline come the final.

Mark Hammett explained, "Conrad is a strong and confident leader. I know he is really looking forward to the challenge that lies ahead. We will have a leadership group that will be there to work with him and take this team to the next level and into the future."

Smith will be the seventh Hurricanes captain in the franchise's history. He will re-join the squad in February before the side's first pre-season match against the Blues on 4th February.

- NEWSTALK ZB/HERALD ONLINE