Rennie names Savea as All Blacks captain in first squad since taking charge

Dave Rennie has named Ardie Savea as All Blacks captain and selected four uncapped players in his first 34-man squad since taking charge of New Zealand, with the side set to face France in Christchurch, Italy in Wellington and Ireland in Auckland across three Nations Championship Tests.

Savea replaces Scott Barrett, who remains sidelined with a serious back injury. Rennie, appointed head coach in March, said the appointment was straightforward given the flanker’s standing within the group.

“Congratulations to our new All Blacks Captain, Ardie Savea, who we know will do an outstanding job of leading this team on and off-field. Ardie is highly respected by his team mates and cares deeply about the black jersey,” Rennie said.

The four uncapped players — Anton Segner, Xavier Numia, Josh Moorby and Fehi Fineanganofo — were rewarded for strong Super Rugby seasons. Rennie said their selection was fully merited.

“Special congratulations must go to our four uncapped players. These men have each had an outstanding Super Rugby season and fully deserve their place in the squad. It will be a massively proud time for their families, friends and team mates.”

Crusaders lock Jamie Hannah has been added to the squad as temporary injury cover for Tupou Vaa’i, who is working through concussion protocols. Hannah is also uncapped.

Among those unavailable through injury are Tamaiti Williams, Scott Barrett, Fabian Holland and Leicester Fainga’anuku.

Rennie described the squad’s character in direct terms, expressing confidence ahead of what he framed as three demanding fixtures.

“We are rapt with this squad — players with the ability to bar up to the demands of test footy but also play with optimism and brutality. We look forward to connecting on Wednesday in preparation for three big tests against France, Italy and Ireland,” he said.

The opening Test against France takes place at One New Zealand Stadium in Christchurch in less than two weeks.