The 58 times capped international will take over from Alun Wyn Jones who captained the Ospreys on 115 occasions spanning eight years. Since making his Ospreys debut in November 2009 as a second half replacement in a Liberty Stadium Anglo-Welsh tie against Northampton Saints, Tipuric has gone on to make 155 regional appearances, his tally of 25 tries the highest by an Ospreys forward.
Despite only now being made club captain the Trebanos product has already captained his home region 27 times. And head coach Allen Clarke is confident the all action Tipuric has all the skills required to lead the team to success.
“Alun Wyn is a proud Osprey who has led the team with great honour from the front since 2010 both as a player and as an ambassador,” said Clarke.
“In Justin we have another world-class player who leads by example on and off the field. It’s important to remember that Al is still a major player and significant leader within our environment, but having discussed the position with him it was clear he believed the time was right for the Ospreys to have a fresh voice as a captain.
“An Osprey through and through, Justin is the right man for the job. A deep student of the game Tips has a wonderful understanding of rugby, with a steely determination and skill set to match.
“He epitomises the past and what we aspire to be again. I’ve no doubt he will receive the full backing of players, staff and supporters alike.
“We are fortunate to have a number of players in the environment who are leaders and captains. As well as Alun Wyn, who remains Wales captain, Dan Lydiate, Bradley Davies and Scott Williams have all captained their country, and Giorgi Nemsadze is the captain of Georgia, so Justin has plenty of experience to support him throughout this season and beyond.”
