Jono Gibbes has been named to captain the Chiefs for the 2008 Super 14 season.

“It is always a privilege to captain the Chiefs and I’m looking forward to another season in the role,” the 30-year-old lock said.

“The Chiefs are a proud and driven team - it is great to be part of that environment again.

“It is fair to say that for most of 2007 injury hampered my playing time significantly. But now my body feels good and I’m confident I’ll be able to stand up to the rigours of Rebel Sport Super 14 rugby.

“I’m looking forward to working with all the new guys in the Chiefs squad and building on the positive gains we made last year,” Gibbes said.

Gibbes will become the first captain to lead the Chiefs for six consecutive seasons. The only other Chiefs captain to have led the side over consecutive years was Deon Muir in 2001 and 2002.