 Gibbes can play either lock or flanker |
Jono Gibbes has been named captain of the New Zealand Maori squad to face the British and Irish Lions next month. The utility forward will lead a 26-man squad made up of some former and current New Zealand internationals, including Carlos Spencer and Rico Gear.
"Jono is a proven leader and he has led the Maori before and has led his province and Super 12 franchise with distinction," said coach Matt Te Pou.
The Maori will face the Lions in Hamilton on 11 June.
Other former or current All Blacks include Marty Holah, Leon MacDonald, Caleb Ralph, Greg Feek and Carl Hayman.
The importance of the match has been underlined by New Zealand's selectors who will release all eligible players even though the All Blacks are due to play Fiji in Albany the previous night.
Spencer, who announced this month he was leaving Auckland to play club rugby in England, will miss the match against Fiji because it clashes with Martin Johnston's testimonial in London.
However, the fly-half will return in time for the Lions clash.
NZ Maori squad: Jono Gibbes (captain), Wayne Ormond, Thomas Waldrom, Daniel Braid, Marty Holah, Angus MacDonald, Paul Tito, Sean Hohneck, Deacon Manu, Greg Feek, Carl Hayman, Corey Flynn, Scott Linklater, Leon MacDonald, Shannon Paku, Neil Brew, Rico Gear, Caleb Ralph, Rua Tipoki, Tamati Ellison, Riki Flutey, David Hill, Luke McAlister, Carlos Spencer, Craig McGrath, Piri Weepu.
MMIX
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