Youngs to captain Leicester

Norfolk-born Youngs has made more than 100 first XV appearances for the Tigers since coming through the club's academy ranks and has been capped by England and the British & Irish Lions.

Commenting on his latest role as captain, the 29-year-old said: "I am immensely proud to be club captain of the Tigers. It is without a doubt one of the highest things I have achieved in the game.

"I am a Leicester Tiger born and bred, I love the club and everything it stands for. To be captain is a huge honour and I'm very pleased to be given the opportunity.

"I'm looking forward to being able to lead the boys and doing whatever I can to help the club in competing for major honours," Youngs added.

Originally a centre capped at Under-20 level, Youngs moved to the front row and has earned 22 caps for England as well as three with the British & Irish Lions on their triumphant tour to Australia in 2013.

Youngs made his 100th appearance for the Tigers in the win at Worcester Warriors last December and captained the club for the first time at Welford Road in a win over Northampton Saints in January this year.

Tigers Director of rugby Richard Cockerill said: "[Youngs] is a Leicester man through and through, and has special links with the club where his father and brother have also played. He is a world-class player who leads by example on the field and he shows all the attributes of a true Leicester player.

"I'm delighted he has accepted the club captaincy and we're looking forward to seeing a strong season from him and from the team.

"[Youngs] is supported by a good strong group of leaders within the squad, including Ed Slater who has done an excellent job as club captain over the last couple of seasons, and experienced players like Mathew Tait, Dan Cole, Tom Croft, Manu Tuilagi, Ben Youngs, Owen Williams and Freddie Burns,"

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