Ardie Savea named All Blacks captain

Ardie Savea has been appointed the new captain of the All Blacks, with head coach Dave Rennie announcing the squad selection on Monday.

Savea described the captaincy as "one of the greatest honours in sport," expressing his commitment to serving the team, its people, and its fans. He emphasized his belief that the role involves empowering every member of the group, from leadership and players to the wider staff. Savea also paid tribute to past leaders while acknowledging the responsibility of writing the next chapter in the All Blacks' storied history.

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To serve this team, its people and its fans is one of the greatest honours in sport. I believe this role is about empowering everyone in the group to be the best that they can be - from the leadership, to the players and wider staff. We pay tribute to those who have gone before us while also acknowledging that the responsibility of writing the next chapter in the All Blacks story lies with us.

He extended his gratitude to his wife, children, parents, and extended family and friends, recognizing their support as a crucial "village" that walks alongside him. Rennie expressed confidence in Savea's ability to lead effectively both on and off the field, noting his high respect among teammates and his deep care for the black jersey.

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We are blessed to have a 'village' that walks alongside us.

The squad also features several players with Pasifika heritage, including Asafo Aumua, Samisoni Taukei'aho, George Bower, Pasilio Tosi, Tupou Vaa'i, Patrick Tuipulotu, Wallace Sititi, and Quinn Tupaea. Debutants Xavier Numia, Anton Segner, Fehi Fineanganofo, and Josh Moorby have also been included. Tamaiti Williams, Scott Barrett, Fabian Holland, and Leicester Fainga'anuku are unavailable due to injury.

The All Blacks' season begins with a match against France on July 4th in Christchurch. Their schedule includes games against Italy, Ireland, Scotland, Wales, and England, culminating in the Nations Championship Finals Weekend in London.

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Ardie is highly respected by his team-mates and cares deeply about the black jersey.