Thrilled Clarke Dermody to skipper Irish

Former All Black prop Clarke Dermody will replace lock Bob Casey as London Irish captain this season.

Casey, who has been an inspirational leader for the past three seasons, will still have a major role at the club.

Toby Booth, the London Irish head coach, said: "I am very pleased to announce that Clarke will be captaining the side this season.

"He is a natural captain with a wealth of leadership experience at Provincial and Super 14 level in New Zealand. I would like to thank Bob for his fine captaincy in the past three seasons and stress the important role that players of his experience have on the continued development of our squad.

"The physical nature of Premiership rugby encourages the need for leaders all over the pitch and teams can no longer rely on one leader.

"Clarke will be our figurehead but the contribution of Bob and our other senior players will be paramount to our success on the pitch."

Dermody, who joined the club in 2007, said: "I am thrilled to have been asked to be captain for this season and am looking forward to the challenge of leading London Irish."