By Shayne Hope
Outgoing Brisbane Lions skipper Dayne Zorko rates Harris Andrews the leading choice among three “clear candidates” to take over as captain of the AFL club.
Zorko stepped down on Tuesday after four years in the full-time role, joining a growing list of club leaders around the competition who have opted to hand over the reins this season.
Zorko said 26-year-old star defender Harris Andrews is “more than likely” the leading candidate to replace him as captain.Credit:Getty Images
The Lions ended their 10-year finals drought during Zorko’s first full season as captain in 2019 and have reached the finals every year since.
Andrews was Zorko’s vice-captain for the past three seasons and has long been touted as a potential successor as skipper.
Zorko also spoke highly of Brownlow medallist Lachie Neale.Credit:Getty Images
Zorko said the 26-year-old star defender is “more than likely” the leading candidate.
“He’s a really well-respected voice amongst the playing group and around the club,” Zorko told SEN on Wednesday.
“He does everything right. He’s a really vocal leader.”
Zorko also spoke highly of Brownlow medallist Lachie Neale and 24-year-old midfield star Hugh McCluggage.
Zorko also said 24-year-old midfield star Hugh McCluggage “has the ability to do it”.Credit:AFL Photos
“Hugh for me is the one that probably has the ability to do it, whether maybe he’s a little bit too raw at the moment or he wants to find his feet a little bit more – that’s a decision the club will have to make,” Zorko said.
“For me, he would be the perfect fit.
“It’s a big process and I’m sure the club will make the best decision possible.”
Zorko faced calls relinquish the captaincy role last year following his on-field sledge that brought Melbourne defender Harrison Petty to tears.
The 34-year-old rode out that storm and led the Lions to a preliminary final, with their flag hopes ended by eventual premiers Geelong.
Zorko said he reached his decision on Monday with Brisbane coach Chris Fagan, opting to make the call himself before he was tapped on the shoulder.
He said some of his teammates were surprised when he told the group but he firmly believed it was the best move for the club, himself and his family.
“I think it’s the right decision. I think the timing is really good,” Zorko said.
“Obviously I’ll still be there to support whoever takes over as captain and guide them in whatever way I possibly can, but just stepping back from those formal roles will hopefully allow me time I can spend with family and of course to get my body right to have the best possible year I can.“
– AAP
