Stefan Ratchford has spoken of his “pride” after being named Warrington Wolves’ new captain for 2023.
The ex-England international, 34, succeeds Jack Hughes who left for Leigh Leopards in the off-season. Utility back Ratchford is starting his 12th campaign at the club and the Super League opener against Leeds Rhinos next month will mark his 300th appearance in Wolves colours.
He led the Warrington for most of last season when Hughes was injured but will now fully take on the role as part of a leadership team of England scrum-half George Williams, Australian signing Josh McGuire and ex-Castleford centre Peter Mata’utia.
Ratchford, set to feature at centre this term, said: “I’m extremely proud and honoured to be named captain of this club. It’s a huge privilege to be given the opportunity and is a role I’m determined to succeed in.
"We’ve got a strong leadership group here also which I know I’ll have the full support of. To follow in the footsteps of some of the club greats who’ve captained Warrington over the years is a special honour for me.
“I’ve been here a long time - I’m an adopted Warringtonian now! - and all the lads have bought into the values we’ve spoken about in pre-season. There’s a really positive feel around the place. We know last year was unacceptable but now it’s time to crack on. I can’t wait now for the new season to get started and the challenge that lies ahead.”
Ratchford was one of Warrington’s most consistent players last term when he performed admirably for a side that managed just nine wins in 27 Super League games. Head coach Daryl Powell says he was an obvious choice. He said: “He’s almost Mr Warrington isn’t he?
“I'm not saying captains are overrated; you need a captain. But then you need people in and around there to be strong, too. It’s not just one person. You need strong leaders. I think we have the right people there. But when I came last year, Stef wasn’t the captain, but he behaved like a captain and he will continue to do that with a lot of support from people around.”
