New Zealand Kiwis, Samoa, James Fisher-Harris, rugby league news, test match, rugby league news

James Fisher-Harris has been named the new captain of the New Zealand Test team, taking over from Jesse Bromwich.

A replacement for Bromwich, who retired from international rugby league earlier this month, was expected to be announced ahead of the Kiwis’ Pacific Championship clash against Samoa on Saturday.

New Zealand officially handed over the captaincy role to Fisher-Harris at a gathering in Auckland this weekend.

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“It is such a privilege and such an honor to be appointed to lead my country,” Fisher-Harris told NRL.com.

“I’m proud to represent my family and the people where I come from (in Northland). It will be a special moment to lead my teammates against Toa Samoa at Eden Park.

Kiwis coach Michael Maguire said Fisher-Harris was the “natural choice” for the role.

“James has become a wonderful leader during my time with the Kiwis,” Maguire said.

“He was a natural choice to captain for this campaign. He is so respected by all our players and staff, he is truly a leader whose actions speak.

The 27-year-old prop has made 11 appearances for the Kiwis since making his debut against Scotland in late 2016.

He has previously captained his country, leading New Zealand to the World Cup against Jamaica in 2022.