In reply to the op.
Whilst the sentiments of your post are spot on and that most fans would like to see someone taking charge, especially if things are going wrong on the pitch, the idea of a captain pinning other players against the wall for missing a tackle or not executing a play couldn't be tolerated in the modern world and he's be sacked within a month.
Mind you, when any side appears to meekly accept defeat and nobody appears to give a damn, it would make a refreshing change to see the captain getting stuck into his players.
In the old days, they could instigate a bit of biff to get the players fired up but, again, this no longer seems to be part of the game.
I know that it doesn't look great on TV, when we are trying to promote the game but, most fans that I know, used to love a decent scrap on the pitch.

It's a fine line as you say, I to don't mind a bit of biff and occasionally I don't mind seeing emotions boil over a little. If nothing else it's natural in such a physical game. However, there is a world of difference between that and invoking the spirit of Rockey Turner. I have no issue with the man he sounds a brilliant leader of men, that is men from 1960!

I never judge the past through modern-day sensibilities I think that's utterly foolish as these things were of their time, however, it works both ways and to transfer Turner's (or any sixties hard man) methods into some sort of cure for the modern-day sportsman is utterly absurd.

Turner and most of the rest of the game from the sixties belongs in the sixties. You can learn from the past but you should never live in it, that's just bonkers.

No idea what the bonus structure is these days (and its none of our business either) but back then match winnings made a heck of a difference to those players. You can understand why you would get characters like Turner because if someone is not trying hard it affects his pocket.

Its different these days, they have a guaranteed pay each month - its just a job remember. What would you do if your manager at work pinned you up against the wall, all hell would break lose and HR would go into meltdown!

I agree.
There is good reason why that "style" of captaincy no longer exists. Although, there are times when, as a fan, the side sometimes looks like they need a rocket up their backsides and I'm not sure that we have anyone who can or would get stuck in to their team mates - maybe Big Dave or Broughy ?

Broughy may be the one to do it but I remember Ollie Wilks throwing the ball at Danny Brough in response to something Danny said to him! perhaps the players don't like on field criticism?

I suppose that only matters if Brough is bothered, which I suspect he isn't. Not sure Brough was captain which might also explain it.

Probably not the man for the job.

I was fortunate enough to have seen Rocky Turner while he led the great Trinity side of the early sixties and he was by far the best Wakefield captain that I have ever see.

If you want a modern version look at Andy Farrell. Even in retirement his motivational speech to the British Lions (RU version) should be watched by every player and coach alike.

This was said to seasoned professionals, international players in a calm and soft manner which had my hairs stand up.

In short he said that it wasn't about taking part or playing well......It was only about winning.

No wonder he was such a great player.

do you rate turner as a better captain than Harold Poynton who led us in our championship wins and if so why and we’re they similar In leadership

I suppose it's like many other aspects in life, when everything is going well and running smoothly, a leader in the business world, or a captain of a sports team isn't needed as much. When things are going wrong, then obviously they come into play, and their leadership style will be questioned if results are not improved. A team of 'workers' are a team, but also individuals, so a kick up the backside for one may work, and an arm around the shoulder for another may be beneficial. I'll be honest, Miller doesn't come across as a 'natural' leader of men, but it doesn't mean he can't do a good job. The last decent team we had in 2004, Ellis was very softly spoken, and appeared to lead by example? The way Sculthorpe did as well. It's a weird one sometimes, because some of the greatest sports teams have had captains/leaders who wouldn't have got in their respective teams on ability alone! Mike Brearly in cricket for one. You would assume Chester sees something in Jacob doing the job......

ashurst?

A captain IMO needs to be on the pitch for the full 80, so no though I'm sure he'd be ok at the job. I know there are exceptions but generally speaking that how it works.

I don't think Ashurst is a captain personally but isn't he one of the only forwards that does play 80 minutes (pre injury of course)
They tend to change props, Hooker and LF more than second rowers.

So who do we fancy as next years captain?fifita? kyle wood? Hope we dont persevere with miller think he lost some form from pressure of position especially on our losing run

Miller has already been named