Otago coach Steve Martin has decided midfielder Bancroft will lead the back division, and Bancroft says the team has the tools to excel under the new experimental law variations (ELVs).
"The new rules means you have to be fitter and faster to play and that is right into our style," he said.
"We don't have the biggest team but under these new rules the physical confrontation might not be there as much."
Bancroft, who weighs 94kg and stands 1.81m, says the back division wanted to play expansive rugby and had the players to carry out that plan.
This will be the second season in Otago colours for the 23-year-old, but he expected and wanted to improve on his debut last year in the Air New Zealand Cup.
The Otago side came seventh last year and was beaten by Canterbury in the quarterfinals.
"Last year was last year and we're best to leave it behind. For me, personally, it was pretty run-of-the-mill. The season was not that constructive.
"It already feels better this year."
Otago was aiming for the semifinals at the minimum, he said.
Bancroft eagerly accepted the role of leading the backs, when asked.
He preferred to play at second five-eighth, ahead of centre.
"It's that wee bit closer to the action . . . I want to have that added responsibility."
He hoped bringing a more professional approach to the game would improve his rugby.
"You just look at someone like Paul Williams and see all the levels of professionalism he brings to the game - just those little things, like stretching before everyone else. That sort of stuff is hugely important."
The Harbour midfielder, who hails from Marlborough, played for New Zealand Secondary Schools, New Zealand under-19 and New Zealand under-21 and still harboured ambitions for the national side.
He tried his luck at Canterbury for one season, but, hit by injury, he headed south and is here to stay.
