Mauger has made five Premiership appearances this season

Leicester Tigers head coach Richard Cockerill says Aaron Mauger's influence and experience is proving invaluable.

Centre Mauger, who has won 45 caps for the All Blacks, celebrates his 29th birthday on Sunday and will skipper the side against Leeds on Saturday.

Cockerill told BBC Radio Leicester: "He's been a fantastic player for us and captains the side very well.

"He has experience and calmness and an exceptional football brain - probably one of the best in the world."

Mauger has struggled with injury since joining the Tigers in 2007 but Cockerill said that when fit he has been a key player.

"His speed of thought, the way he deals with other players and the way he organises the team is fantastic," Cockerill added.

"He's not a shouter or a bawler. He's quietly spoken and leads by example.

"His knowledge of the people around him is second to none.

He's not getting any younger but is certainly playing very well."

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