When Trent Hodkinson was omitted from the Newcastle line-up 24 hours prior to their clash with the Cowboys, former Australian international Mata'utia was named in his place – both at halfback and as skipper.
Nathan Brown's decision to put the "c" next to Mata'utia's name meant the centre-turned back-rower became the youngest Knight to captain the club in their three-decade history.
Now enjoying life on the Northern Beaches, Uate remains in regular contact with Mata'utia since departing the club at the end of last season and was one of the first to hear of the news.
