Lynch named as Bradford captain

Bradford coach Steve McNamara has appointed prop Andy Lynch as captain for the 2010 season.

Lynch, 30, joined the Bulls from Castleford for the start of the 2005 season and will have Bradford’s longest serving players, Jamie Langley, as his vice captain.

Lynch said: “I was very shocked when Steve McNamara picked me to be skipper ahead of Ox, Langers and Beaver. It’s a privilege to do it and a great honour for me personally.   I’m really pleased to work under Macca and be captain of Bradford Bulls. 

“Beaver, Langers and Ox are all senior players and they’ll all have their input as well so if we can all go out as captains, not just the four senior players but every person in the squad, then it’ll be a big bonus for us.”

Langley, in his testimonial year, and new signing Matt Orford had been favourites for the role, but McNamara paid tribute to his new skipper.

He said: “Andy epitomises everything we are about at the Bulls. He’s highly respected by everybody within our organisation and highly respected by every opponent in the competition as well. In the last three or four years he’s been a model of consistency and a great example for everyone to follow.

“Jamie Langley will be vice captain and he’s been exactly the same in terms of consistency on and off the field. It’s his Testimonial Year and I am delighted for him.”

Bradford open their Super League campaign with a trip to Huddersfield Giants on Friday.