Nick Hewson new captain of Hong Kong team
Nick Hewson has been named as the new captain of Hong Kong as they chase a 2015 Rugby World Cup berth next year.
Nick Hewson has been named as the new captain of Hong Kong as they chase a 2015 Rugby World Cup berth next year.
Flanker Hewson was unveiled as the new 15s captain by the Hong Kong Rugby Football Union, which is targeting a place in the repechages at next year’s qualifiers for the World Cup in England.
I’m looking forward to what will be a crucial next six months with the main goal being to qualify for the World Cup
“We looked for someone who is not only a quality player but also a leader and he ticks all the boxes,” said Hong Kong head coach Leigh Jones. “He is well respected within the squad and a player who I have built up a great working relationship with.”
Hewson, a 29-year-old New Zealander, takes over the captaincy from centre Tom McColl, a pilot with Cathay Pacific who was finding it more difficult to devote his full attention to the game.
Hewson, a former Waikato age-group provincial representative, has completed seven years residence and is now a full-time athlete at the Hong Kong Sports Institute. He is also an integral part of the sevens squad.
“It is a great honour,” said Hewson, who plays in the Premiership for WhichWay Valley. “I’m playing well and am certainly fitter and stronger than ever, and I’m looking forward to what will be a crucial next six months with the main goal being to qualify for the World Cup.”
