The number eight takes over from Stephan Lewies who has decided to step down from the captaincy after four years in the role. The South African captained Quins to the famous Gallagher Premiership title in 2020/21, and led the squad on their historic run to the 2023/24 Investec Champions Cup semi-final v Toulouse.
Speaking on his decision to step down as Men’s Club Captain, Lewies commented: “It’s been a huge honour to captain Harlequins. I’m very proud of what we have achieved together over the past four years, and the special memories we have made. It’s always been a team effort, and I’ll be forever grateful to my teammates, coaches and the Quins faithful for their huge support.
“I’m excited for what we can achieve next with Dommers at the helm. I can’t think of a better leader, teammate or person for this role, and I have no doubt he’ll succeed quickly and drive us forward. I will always cherish lifting the Premiership trophy with Dommers in 2021 and I’m confident he’s the man to take our Club to more success.”
A crowd favourite at The Stoop, Dombrandt follows in the footsteps of several Quins legends to have captained the Club, including Lewies, Danny Care, Joe Marler, Chris Robshaw, Andre Vos, Will Carling, Keith Wood and Jason Leonard.
First arriving in Quins colours from Cardiff Met University in 2018/19, Dombrandt has flourished during his time in the Quarters, scoring 70 tries in his 139 appearances, and regularly stepping in as acting matchday captain.
Capped 17 times for England, the Croydon-born 27-year-old is renowned for his intelligent running lines and powerful bursts through the heart of opposition defences, displaying a natural style of play that mirrors Quins’ attacking DNA.
Commenting on his appointment, Dombrandt said: “I’m immensely proud to be named Men’s Club Captain and hugely honoured to be taking over from Steph (Lewies), someone who has been a huge influence on my career and leaves an incredible legacy as one of only two Harlequins captains to lift the Premiership trophy.
“I’m massively honoured to captain Quins, the Club I love, and I can’t wait to lead my teammates this season, playing in front of the best supporters in the league, and striving to achieve our objectives and consistent success.”
Director of Rugby Billy Millard said: “Stephan has been a fantastic leader for our Club for the past four years. He’s highly regarded amongst his teammates and has played a huge part in the success and growth of our men’s programme since his appointment. He will always be remembered as a great Harlequins Captain, and we look forward to his continued contribution as one of the most experienced leaders and players in our squad.
“Alex is a true Harlequin and someone who has the utmost respect throughout our playing squad and coaching programme. He’s a natural leader, excellent with his actions on the pitch but also outstanding with his communication and the relationships he has developed with his teammates, coaches and staff. I have no doubt Alex will succeed in this role, and we look forward to watching the squad develop under his leadership, working alongside another impressive leader in Cadan Murley who has been appointed Vice-Captain. I know our fans will show their support for Alex and Cadan as they lead Quins into an exciting season of rugby.”