Walker has led the club for the past four seasons, but struggled at times on-field in 2018 during a disappointing year for the Crows.

The Crows said the decision to appoint the pair – both aged 28 – was made by coach Don Pyke and “key management”.

Sloane was the subject of intense speculation last year that he would leave the club to return to Victoria, but delighted fans when he signed a five-year contract extension.

Pyke said the club opted for co-captaincy due to the growing demands of the role and the leadership capabilities of both players.

“Taylor and Rory are outstanding young men and athletes who are very passionate about our football club and are committed to playing out their careers at the Crows,” he said in a statement posted on the club’s website.

“They are great mates and their leadership skills and qualities complement each other, and having two hard-working and highly driven people in the role can only be a positive.”

Walker said it was a privilege to continue as captain, and expressed confidence in the club’s 2019 season.

“I have the utmost faith and confidence in this playing group and it has been great to see the progress we have made during the pre-season,” he said.

Sloane said he was “honoured to join Tex as captain of the club and am excited about the two of us working together to lead the playing group”.

“I want to do whatever I can to help us achieve the ultimate success which is winning a premiership.”

Walker took a break from playing during 2018 to undergo what he described as a mini pre-season, after injury hampered his preparation.