Elliott Whitehead takes over Canberra Raiders captaincy role from Josh Hodgson

Correspondent

Elliott Whitehead has replaced fellow England international Josh Hodgson as co-captain of Canberra Raiders.

Hodgson, the former Hull and Hull KR hooker who has had a big impact on the Raiders since joining them six years ago, says he remains committed to the club despite relinquishing his leadership role.

He said: “I’ve made the decision to stand down as club captain and I informed the team of this a couple of weeks ago.

“I can assure everyone that I remain fully committed to the club and I’m looking forward to getting myself back to 100% fitness and helping the team get their season back on track.”

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The club say that, as a result of Hodgson’s decision to stand down, Whitehead has been appointed captain alongside Jarrod Croker.

Hodgson is being linked with a move to Brisbane or Canterbury Bulldogs while there is also uncertainty over the future of former Wigan half-back George Williams, who is in the second season of a three-year deal with the NRL club but thought to be homesick.

A statement from Canberra said: “The Raiders have been working with George Williams and his partner around some issues regarding being separated from family and friends back home in England.

“With the global pandemic making it difficult for them to remain connected to family and friends it’s important that the club focuses on their well-being and over the past several weeks they’ve been working with them to identify ways to remain connected.

“The Raiders will continue to offer George and his partner all the support they need and George has confirmed he remains committed to the club.”