New Zealand forward Hep Cahill will lead Widnes Vikings’ bid to reclaim their place in Super League after being appointed as the relegated Vikings’ new club captain today.

Cahill, who has extended his contract to include the 2019 Championship campaign, has made 142 appearances for Widnes since joining them from Melbourne Storm in 2012, but he missed the second half of the 2018 season with an Achilles injury as they lost their battle for survival.

Widnes chief executive James Rule said: “As we look to make an immediate return to the Super League, it is important that we bring to the fore the individuals who can lead by example and demonstrate the desire to fight for this club.

“Hep is someone whose character, dedication and values are of incredible importance to Widnes Vikings.

“As someone who has made personal sacrifices previously for the greater good of this club, supported countless local causes without any wish for recognition and never shied away from challenge on the field, Hep is exactly the type of person whose status should be elevated.”

Cahill said: “I am incredibly honoured to accept the role of club captain. I have loved my time at this club and it is absolutely devastating to experience relegation.

“I know what restoring the Vikings back to the Super League will mean to local people and I will never have a prouder experience in my career than making that happen.”

Widnes, who have yet to outline the positions of interim head coach Francis Cummins and new signing Anthony Gelling, say they also have the option to appoint a team captain.

They complete their qualifiers campaign at Hull KR on Sunday.