Overview
- Coach Dave Rennie named Ardie Savea captain when he unveiled his first All Blacks squad, a move that replaces the injured Scott Barrett in the role.
- Savea said he will embrace the extra pressure and responsibility of permanent captaincy and cited family and faith as sources of support.
- Rennie praised Savea’s experience and said the new captain will lead more by example than words, with Rennie contracted through next year’s Rugby World Cup.
- The appointment comes as New Zealand prepares to play France, Italy and Ireland at home in July and then undertake an eight-match tour of South Africa in August and September that includes four Tests against the Springboks.
- Savea’s promotion highlights Pasifika representation and fan support in New Zealand rugby and signals Rennie’s early selection priorities as he builds the squad toward the 2027 World Cup.