Dean Mumm likely to be next skipper of NSW Waratahs - Super Rugby News
Dean Mumm, who has represented the New South Wales Waratahs in 64 Super Rugby matches, is likely to lead the derby after the exit of Phil Waugh.
Phil Waugh hung up his boots yesterday, June 21, and said that it was the right time for him to say farewell to rugby. Waugh announced the conclusion of his Super Rugby career with the end of this year’s championship but hoped to be included in Wallabies
team for the upcoming Rugby World Cup 2011.
Phil Waugh retired after offering his services to the Waratahs for an extended period. He has set the club record for most Super Rugby games played at 124. Waugh has also played 77 International matches for the Wallabies and he hopeful to increase the number
before he bids farewell to International rugby.
The news of Waugh’s retirement came as a shock for the whole team and the players and officials of the NSW Waratahs paid rich tribute to their outgoing skipper. Their coach, Graham Hickey, said in an interview that Waugh has led the Waratahs through thick
and thin and he would be hard pressed to find another captain like him.
Hickey further said that, “He will be hard to replace … he will certainly be missed by everybody. There's two things you look at here, one is his performance as a No.7 - 70-odd Test caps and he's been a world-class No.7. He is a leader that has led by his
own example; those kind of people are quite unique.”
Phil Waugh thanked his team for their support and appreciation. Waugh said that he has always got great feedback from his friends and family regarding his career.
Meanwhile the Waratahs coach, who has been looking for Waugh’s successor, has hinted that Dean Mumm may be given the responsibility. He stated that, ''When Phil's been out injured this year, some people have had to step in to that leadership role - people
like Dean Mumm and Tommy Carter and others. While they won't replace Waughy, I think they've done a really good job.''
Dean Mumm and Phil Waugh, both will participate in their upcoming quarter-final against the Blues on June 24, in Eden Park Auckland.
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