George Furbank, the newly appointed captain of the Northampton Saints, is gearing up for the upcoming season with a renewed sense of motivation and determination. Following in the footsteps of Lewis Ludlam, who departed for France, Furbank is ready to lead the team to further success on the field. With a perfect record as captain from last season, where he led the team to an impressive 12 wins out of 12 games, Furbank is looking to maintain that level of excellence in the upcoming matches.
A New Challenge as Captain
Taking on the role of captaincy is no small feat, but for Furbank, it is a challenge he is ready to embrace. Reflecting on his experience as captain last season, Furbank expressed how it brought out the best in him and served as an extra source of motivation. He understands the responsibility that comes with being a leader and knows that in order to inspire his teammates, he must perform at the highest level himself.
“I loved being captain last year. It really pushed me to elevate my game and set a good example for the rest of the team,” Furbank shared in an interview with the BBC’s Rugby Union Weekly. “Being a leader means leading by example, and I know that I need to be at my best in order to bring out the best in my teammates.”
As he prepares to lead the Saints into the new season, Furbank remains focused on maintaining his form and continuing to grow as a leader on and off the field. With a solid foundation from his previous experience as captain, he is determined to build on that success and guide the team to even greater heights.
Challenges of Captaining from Full-Back
Captaining a team from the full-back position presents its own set of challenges, as Furbank is not always in the thick of the action like players in the forward pack. However, he has found ways to effectively communicate with his teammates and the referees to ensure that his leadership is felt throughout the game.
“Last year, having players like Courtney Lawes on the field made it easier for me to communicate with the referees and deliver messages to the team,” Furbank explained. “This year, I’ll need to rely on players like Alex Coles to help with those communications. I’ll make sure to speak to the referees beforehand and let them know that I may not always be available for small messages, but I’ll be there for the important ones.”
Despite the unique challenges that come with his position, Furbank is confident in his ability to lead the team effectively from the full-back role. His experience and understanding of the game allow him to adapt to different situations and make the necessary adjustments to ensure the team’s success.
Setting Goals for the Season
As the Saints prepare for the new season, Furbank is focused on achieving their collective goals and maintaining their winning momentum. With the departure of some key players and the addition of young talent to the squad, there is a sense of excitement and anticipation for what lies ahead.
“We have a different squad this year, with some new faces and some familiar ones. There are different motivations for each player, whether it’s winning back-to-back titles or achieving personal success,” Furbank noted. “Our goal is to pull together as a team and work towards a common objective. We want to be the best team we can be and make our mark in the league.”
The Saints are aiming to become the first team to win back-to-back titles since Saracens in 2018 and 2019, and they are also looking to improve on their performance in last season’s European Champions Cup. With a mix of experienced players and rising stars, the team is poised for success as they embark on the new season.
Looking Ahead to International Success
In addition to his responsibilities as captain of the Saints, Furbank is also looking to make an impact on the international stage with England. With nine caps to his name and two tries scored in last season’s Six Nations, he is eager to continue his development and contribute to the national team’s success.
“This past year with England was a turning point for me. I felt like I belonged in that environment and was able to perform at a high level,” Furbank shared. “Building connections with my teammates and gaining confidence in my abilities has been crucial for my development as a player.”
As he sets his sights on adding to his international caps and making a lasting impression with England, Furbank is determined to continue his upward trajectory and showcase his skills on the biggest stage. With a strong support system in place and a clear focus on his goals, he is poised for success both with the Saints and on the international scene.
In conclusion, George Furbank’s appointment as captain of the Northampton Saints marks a new chapter in his career, filled with challenges and opportunities for growth. With a proven track record as a leader and a relentless drive to succeed, he is ready to take on the responsibilities that come with wearing the captain’s armband. As he leads the team into the new season, Furbank’s leadership both on and off the field will be crucial to the Saints’ success. With a talented squad and a clear vision for the future, the Saints are poised for another successful campaign under Furbank’s guidance.