Crusaders coach Robbie Deans has paid tribute to former captain Reuben Thorne and says his standing within the Super 12 franchise won't change even though he is no longer skipper.
Deans has appointed Canterbury NPC captain and All Blacks vice-captain Richie McCaw to lead the Crusaders this year.
But he
said the decision was no reflection on Thorne, who had captained the Crusaders to three Super 12 finals - and one title - in three seasons at the helm.
Deans said the Crusaders were fortunate to have numerous leaders, but "this is Richie's time".
"He led through the NPC and on the end-of-season [All Blacks] tour and the response has been good. We are simply looking for him to carry on with that.
"But we fully expect Reuben to continue to lead by example. We try to develop leadership and these guys are not only good team-mates in the way they work for each other, they are also very good mates."
Deans said Thorne had "a lot of natural respect" within the Crusaders squad.
"It won't affect Reuben's mana within the group. In fact, I'd suggest it will probably grow.
"It doesn't take anything away from Reuben in terms of what he's achieved already.
"The opportunity now rests with Richie to carry it on."
McCaw has already acknowledged he has learned a lot about leadership from Thorne and another former Crusaders and All Blacks captain Todd Blackadder.
Thorne will go down in history as one of New Zealand rugby's more successful skippers, having also led the All Blacks to 19 wins in 22 tests in 2002 and 2003.
- NZPA
