Key forward Nick Larkey has been appointed North Melbourne captain, with the Kangaroos announcing their new-look leadership group ahead of the 2026 season.

Larkey, heading into his 10th season at Arden Street, was voted in as the club’s new skipper, while star Harry Sheezel will step into the sole vice-captaincy role.

Larkey succeeds midfielder Jy Simpkin, who led the side for the last three seasons, including two as co-captain alongside veteran Luke McDonald in 2023-24.

Larkey has cemented his status as one of the competition's elite key forwards since becoming a Kangaroo with pick No. 73 in the 2016 National Draft. 

The 27-year-old has played 134 games and booted 278 goals, including a career-best haul of 71 majors in 2023. 

The All-Australian and five-time North Melbourne leading goalkicker has served in the club's leadership group since the 2022 season.

Sheezel, who shared vice-captaincy duties with Larkey in 2025, is already a dual Syd Barker Medallist as he enters just his fourth season at AFL level.

The pair head up a new-look six-player leadership unit that includes four first-time leaders in Luke Davies-Uniacke, Tristan Xerri, Cam Zurhaar and Charlie Comben.

General manager of football Todd Viney congratulated Larkey on his appointment, saying he will be well supported in his first season at the helm.

"Nick has emerged as a key leader and figurehead of this club in his 10 years here, and he should be proud that his peers have elected him to drive this team into its next phase,” Viney said.

"We're extremely confident that Nick can help take this club forward, and he will be exceptionally well supported by Harry whose on and off-field leadership qualities continue to impress at such a young age.

"We’re also excited to have Tristan, Luke, Charlie, and Cam step into this new leadership team, and we believe they’re ready to set the standard for the entire squad as we target an improved campaign in 2026.

"We also thank Jy for his significant contribution and leadership over the past three seasons. He remains a highly valued and respected member of the playing group and will be an important pillar of support for our new leaders."