CHRIS Hill leading Warrington Wolves out has become a bit of a staple in recent years.

However, that changes for 2021.

After five seasons as captain, the prop is stepping back and will fall into the ranks behind new skipper Jack Hughes.

The pair – great friends off the field – have shared the captaincy for the past two seasons but Hill has made the decision to relinquish his share, leaving the second rower to lead the side outright.

"There were many reasons," he said, explaining his decision.

"I’ll admit, a bit of pressure has come off the shoulders. There’s a lot that goes on with it that people don’t see.

"I’ve got a lot of off-field stuff this year – my businesses are a big part of my life now and something I enjoy doing outside of training and playing.

"I’d encourage everyone to do that, no matter if you’re 19 and have got a good few years under your belt or in your mid-thirties and coming to the end.

"You never know what’s round the corner – coronavirus could have brought Super League down.

"At the end of the day, I’ve got five little kids now as well.

"I spoke to Pricey (head coach Steve Price) over Christmas – we had a beer together and I just said it was the right time for me to step back and let Hughesey have a run at it."

Now a fully paid-up member of the rank and file again, Hill's sole focus can once again be on bringing all he can to the Wire team.

Price himself has said Hill's performances in pre-season training have been among the best he has seen in his time at the club.

A full load of preparation for a new season is something that is alien to the 33-year-old, whose position as a staple of England squads for much of the past decade means international duties have cut short his training time.

He may not be captain any more, but he insists that does not change his desire to set an example to the club's up-and-coming young players.

"I’m enjoying it and that’s all you can do," he said.

"The minute I stop enjoying it, I’ll retire. It’s as simple as that.

"There’s a lot of talent emerging at our club and I like seeing them coming through.

"It’s about being a role model – on the field, fitness-wise, with nutrition and everything.

"If I’m slack, they will think it’s okay to be slack."