Allnutt to lead Connacht
Connacht coach Michael Bradley has announced that Tim Allnutt will captain the province for the coming season - the 29 year old also led the province last year before a serious knee injury terminated his season.
Bradley, who took over the reins in Connacht from Steph Nel in the close season, said that Allnutt was the ideal candidate to lead Connacht in the coming campaign as they bid to build on the success of last season when they reached the knockout stages of the Celtic League and the Parker Pen Challenge Cup.
Tim Allnutt was appointed captain of Connacht last season but suffered a knee cruciate ligament injury against Bridgend at the end of September which required surgery and a gruelling recovery programme.
"The determination Tim has shown coming back from such a serious injury is typical of the man and epitomises the commitment we require in Connacht. He leads by example in everything he does," said Bradley.
"We have a young squad and we need a strong leader on and off the pitch. Tim Allnutt provides that as well as ensuring there is continuity from last season," he added.
Allnutt, who is a native of Waimate in New Zealand, is continuing a fine family tradition as older brother Simon also distinguished himself for Connacht for a number of seasons.
"I am honoured to be captain of Connacht and I am looking forward to building on the progress we have made in recent years. We have an impressive squad of players and the expanded Celtic League gives us an opportunity to keep improving. It should be a great season," said Allnutt.
Tim Allnutt played for South Canterbury and the Canterbury Colts, captaining the South Canterbury Development side when they were unbeaten.
Since arriving in Connacht he has the distinction of playing for four clubs in the province. He initially joined Gort, then moved to Corinthians before linking up with Galwegians.
Two years ago he joined Buccaneers.
