Kiwis halfback Stacey Jones will captain French club Catalans Dragons in their inaugural Super League match in February, the club announced today.
Jones, who has signed a two-year deal, will lead the team in their opening game against Wigan in Perpignan on February 11.
"It was an easy decision," Catalans chief executive Grant Mayor said on the BBC website.
"It has been received very well, when the players were told pre-training they all applauded.
"Stacey is one of the world's best players and has captained his country. He has had so much success in the game and commands so much respect.
"When you look at the big challenge which faces us we need the right leader and Stacey will be an excellent mentor for the kids."
Jones was named as captain ahead of a host of French internationals and was presented to the fans at a club open day at the weekend.
He was the Tri-Nations tournament's leading scorer and played in all five matches as the Kiwis lifted the trophy in November.
Jones joined his new teammates last week after being given permission to delay his arrival because of a family wedding.
- NZPA
League: Stacey Jones to captain Catalans
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