Michele Lamaro has been named as the new Italy captain ahead of the upcoming Autumn Nations Series.
Lamaro, who has won seven caps for the Azzurri since making his debut against France in November 2020, takes over from hooker Luca Bigi.
The back-rower started all five games at No.8 during the 2021 Guinness Six Nations and new head coach Kieran Crowley has entrusted the 23-year-old with the armband.
Lamaro has shone for club side Benetton, where he is now co-captain, over the past four years and has captaincy experience with Italy Under-17s, Under-18s and Under-20s.
The Azzurri staff and players were told the news at the beginning of training camp in Verona and he will lead the team for the first time in their Autumn Nations Series opener against New Zealand on November 6.
“We have a group of very good young players who made their debut in the national team in a time span not very far from each other,” said Crowley.
“The choice fell on one of the athletes [Lamaro] who showed great growth from a technical and leadership point of view with a constant maturation.
“I want to thank Luca Bigi for the approach he had and for the work done as captain. He will continue to be an important part of the leadership group from now on.”
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After squaring off with the All Blacks, Italy take on Argentina and then Uruguay as the Crowley era begins with a trio of mouth-watering fixtures.
And Lamaro is ready for the responsibility that comes with donning the armband.
“It is a proud moment for me to be made captain,” he said. “My first thought, after receiving the news from Kieran Crowley, immediately went to my family and to all the people who have supported me over the years and who have contributed in an important way to my growth.
“The figure of the captain has undergone an evolution over time. He has gone from a solo figure to a group of experienced players who support the captain in managing the group.
“I think being able to have more points of reference for all team members is a fundamental aspect in team sports.
“I have had illustrious predecessors in this role. I will do my best to be able to help Italy achieve the goals set.”
