Super League: St Helens name Jon Wilkin as captain

St Helens have confirmed Jon Wilkin as their new captain, replacing full-back Paul Wellens.

The 32-year-old has played nearly 300 games for the Super League side and coach Keiron Cunningham says it is a 'natural progression' for him to take over from Wellens, who will continue to play a major role in his plans.

"I was captain of the team coming off the bench and not playing, and it was quite tough – Paul didn’t want to let go of it, but he didn’t want to not have that presence where he wasn’t captain of the club,” Cunningham said.

"As a joint decision Paul will support the new captain, and we thought the natural progression to continue what we are doing would be Jon."

Wilkin is looking forward to his added responsibility and hopes for a successful first season in charge as Saints bid to defend their Super League title, won in a controversial Grand Final against Wigan in October.

"I’d just like to say what an honour it is to play for such a fantastic club like St Helens; it’s an exceptional achievement and to go on and captain the club and follow some iconic names comes with some responsibility,” he said.

“When we spoke about me becoming captain the most exciting thing was the pages for the history of this club going forward are blank – they’re yet to be populated with trophies. As a captain, sitting here with Keiron now I’m looking forward to filling those pages."

James Roby will act as Wilkin's vice-captain.