Wellington Hurricanes have named four captains for the Super Rugby season, employing the Maori kaitiaki approach of guardians overseeing the protection and growth of the team.
Hooker Asafo Aumua, flankers Du'Plessis Kirifi and Brad Shields, and centre Billy Proctor have all been entrusted with the role.
"Yes, the approach is a little bit different, but we're not just doing it for the sake of being different," said Hurricanes coach Craig Laidlaw, who is from Scotland.
"This is what we felt was the best way to structure and provide leadership and guidance within our environment this season."
The Hurricanes topped the regular season standings in 2024, but were beaten in the semi-finals by eventual runners-up Waikato Chiefs.
They start their 2025 campaign away to the Canterbury Crusaders in Christchurch on Friday.
"The concept of a kaitiaki was chosen for its holistic meaning which we thought was a good reflection of the environment and the kaupapa (values) this team has been building over the last couple of years," said Hurricanes cultural adviser Te Wehi Wright.
Laidlaw said the reality was that they were unlikely to have four named skippers on the field at any one time.
"We'll designate a captain, or co-captains, week-to-week based on the make-up of the team, and who is available," he said.
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