Experience of Galea sees him named Rovers’ captain

The Australian second-row, 33, has replaced Mick Vella who retired at the end of last season.

Sandercock said: “It was a very, very close decision between Benny, Michael Dobson and Blake Green.

“All three of them have shown some outstanding leadership qualities since day one of pre-season training. Ben has played on the winning team in an NRL Grand Final, has the respect of all the other boys and that just tipped the balance in his favour.

“I took my time over making the decision because it’s a pretty important role in terms of being an extension of the coach on both the training field and on game day.”

n Challenge Cup first round draw: Page 22

Carnegie Challenge Cup first round draw: Castleford Lock Lane OR Elland V Sharlston Rovers OR Edge Hill University, Shaw Cross Sharks OR Valley Cougars V York Acorn OR Norland Sharks, Egremont OR Bank Quay Bulls V Leeds Metropolitan University OR Ovenden, Wigan St Cuthbert’s OR Northumbria University V Eastmoor Dragons OR Wigan St Judes, Loughborough University OR Hunslet Warriors V Oldham St Annes OR Bentley Good Companions, Nottingham Outlaws OR Yorkshire Cup Winners V University of Hull OR Waterhead, Seaton Rangers OR Huddersfield Underbank Rangers V Stanley Rangers OR Edinburgh Eagles, Blackbrook OR Eccles and Salford Juniors V Warrington Wizards OR East Leeds, Millom OR British Police V Rochdale Mayfield OR University of Gloucestershire All Golds, Kells OR Widnes West Bank V Normanton Knights OR Milford Marlins, Bradford Dudley Hill OR Castleford Panthers V Featherstone Lions OR Askam. Ties played February 18/19.