Ali Williams to captain Auckland Blues

Auckland Blues head coach John Kirwan has revealed that Ali Williams will captain the club during the 2013 Super Rugby season.

Current captain Keven Mealamu will not return until March as he recovers from a long season, with Williams stepping into the All Blacks star's shoes.

"I think it's an incredibly important time for Ali Williams. I think he's got a heck of a lot to offer this franchise, he's a world class lock with the ability to lead a team and I'm extremely enthusiastic and positive about this decision," Kirwan said in a statement.

The Blues finished bottom in last season's New Zealand conference.