Jamie Heaslip has been officially named Leinster captain by head coach Matt O’Connor for the upcoming Guinness Pro12 season and European Rugby Champions Cup campaign.
The number eight succeeds Leo Cullen who retired from playing at the end of the 2013/14 campaign to take up the role of forwards coach for the province.
Rob Kearney and Sean O’Brien will be Heaslip’s vice captains.
Heaslip, 30, has stood in as Leinster captain on a number of occasions in seasons past, and has also fulfilled the role for Ireland as well.
Commenting on his decision to appoint Heaslip to the role, O’Connor said: “Jamie is an outstanding leader for us.
“He has been in that role before even if has been in a deputy role. He represents the values of the club very well.
“He’s an unbelievable professional and that rubs off on the group.
“We look forward to the success continuing under his captaincy.”
Leinster are current Pro12 champions and begin their defence of that title next month.
