Mitch Barnett sets sights on Warriors captaincy for 2025

Mitch Barnett has acknowledged that his previous behaviour both on and off the field "didn't suit" the role of an NRL captain. However, the representative forward is now positioning himself as a strong candidate to lead the Warriors in 2025.

Coach Andrew Webster is still considering his options for a replacement after Tohu Harris' retirement a few weeks ago. Among the potential candidates are Kiwis captain James Fisher-Harris and former Warriors skipper Roger Tuivasa-Sheck.

Barnett has made a compelling case for the captaincy after he led the team in a trial match against the Sharks on Friday. He also captained the side nine times last year when Harris was sidelined due to injury.

Webster has shown openness to the possibility of appointing co-captains, and Barnett has expressed his eagerness for the role, particularly after overcoming an injury that required stitches on his chin last week. "I'd never knock back the captaincy. It's probably an ultimate goal of mine," he stated, citing his form as one of the best middle forwards in the world last year.

Barnett acknowledged the merits of the other players in contention for the captaincy, saying, "There are great options here with 'Fish', Roger and other leaders. Whatever Webby wants to do, I'm happy with. I just want to win. I've got Webby's back with whatever he decides because I'm all in."

A few years ago, leading the team was not something Barnett considered, particularly after a six-match suspension due to an incident against Penrith. However, he has shown significant maturity since moving to New Zealand, which led to his selection for both Origin and international matches last year.

"I never thought too much about it (captaincy)," he reflected. "My off-field stuff probably didn't suit it when I was younger, and neither did my on-field. Since coming here, I just naturally fell into it. There was a period where we had no senior players due to injuries. I was the last one left and thought I needed to stand up, so I took it upon myself. I was playing good footy at the time and had the confidence to do it. The boys backed me and I just sort of fell into it. I'm glad I did because I really enjoy the different role."

This year brings new challenges as Johnson and Harris have retired, while reigning Dally M Prop of the Year Addin Fonua-Blake has moved to the Sharks. Despite suggestions that the team may struggle, Barnett is optimistic about the 2025 squad, which includes 2023 Golden Boot winner Fisher-Harris, known for raising performance standards following his successful tenure with the Panthers.

"I lose one quality front-rower and gain another, so there are no complaints. They're two completely different players," he noted. "He's been the ultimate professional for us. I think he's inspired a few of the younger boys and brought their professionalism up. He's a leader and it's great to have him. Our intensity has lifted at training because of him."