Matthew Beharrell has been named captain of Championship new boys Keighley Cougars ahead of the 2026 campaign.
The skipper has been given the nod to lead the Cougars into the new season by head coach Alan Kilshaw but 39-year-old George Flanagan will act as a club captain, with the former Bradford Bulls man expected to drive standards on and off the field.
Beharrell has only been with the Cougars since June, with the scrum-half, who is well known for his diminutive stature standing at just 5’4”, returning for a second spell at the club. However, at 31, he is one of the most senior figures in the group and he isn’t short of experience either, having made over 200 appearances over a career that started at Hull KR.
The Hull-born man made just one appearances for the Robins, coming in a record 84-6 loss to Wigan Warriors in 2013, before moving on to have spells with Newcastle Thunder, Swinton Lions, Keighley, Doncaster, Dewsbury Rams and Hunslet.
He has scored 42 tries and kicked 11 field goals in that time, as well as kicking 471 goals ensuring he has over 1000 points to his name in the professional ranks either in the Championship or League 1.
“It’s a real privilege and honour to be named captain of this great club and it’s something I’m really looking forward to,” Beharrell said. “I just want to thank the coaching staff for trusting in me to take on this big responsibility.
“I know what it means to play for Keighley and how passionate the fans are here. This season I think is more about action on the pitch rather then talk off it.
“Last season was poor and everybody knows that and the fans deserve better then what we showed last season and I know we will be much better with a full pre season under Killer.
“I’m looking forward to seeing everyone get down to Cougar Park next season and making it a fortress and backing us 100% for the new season ahead”
On his new captain and club captain, Kilshaw said: “Matty has been appointed captain in recognition of his on-field leadership, work ethic, and the influence he has within the playing group.
“George will serve as club captain, a role reflecting his professionalism, character, and ability to uphold and drive the standards of the club on and off the field. Jack (Teanby) and Browny (Aaron Brown) will support both players in their roles as vice captains.
“We have moved away from an off-field leadership group, as we want to encourage all players to take ownership and be drivers of standards and connection away from the field. Our on-field leadership is vitally important, and we feel these players best represent the qualities needed to lead us forward.”
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