Ardie Savea has been confirmed as the new captain of the All Blacks, a significant appointment by head coach Dave Rennie in his inaugural squad announcement. The 32-year-old loose forward steps into the leadership role previously held by Scott Barrett, who is currently recovering from back surgery. Savea expressed his vision for the captaincy, stating, "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." He further emphasised the unifying power of a successful All Blacks team, appealing to the five million New Zealanders for their support as the team prepares for upcoming challenges over the next 16 months.
Adding intrigue to the squad selection is the inclusion of uncapped winger Fehi Fineanganofo. The 23-year-old, who recently scored his 17th try of the Super Rugby campaign as the Hurricanes secured the title, has been named in the 34-strong group for this summer's Nations Championship. However, his previously confirmed move to Newcastle Red Bulls for next season, announced in January, has been cast into uncertainty. New Zealand Rugby's policy typically only selects domestically based players, unless they are on an approved sabbatical abroad, and Fineanganofo's intended switch to Newcastle is an independent transfer.
Coach Rennie addressed the speculation surrounding Fineanganofo's eligibility and future, remarking, "I think that's the process that he's going through, but what we know is he's contracted here 'til November." He added, "His form has been irresistible, and we're keen to name him. So, yeah, I guess he'll work through that in time." This suggests Fineanganofo may be considering buying himself out of the Newcastle deal to remain eligible for Test rugby and pursue a place in the 2027 Rugby World Cup squad.
A notable omission from the initial squad is Rieko Ioane, who recently completed a six-month sabbatical with Leinster. Despite his absence, Rennie hinted that the versatile 29-year-old could be reintegrated into a larger squad for New Zealand's 'Greatest Rivalry' tour of South Africa, scheduled to commence in August. The All Blacks are set to kick off their Nations Championship campaign on 4th July against France in Christchurch, followed by matches against Italy and Ireland on consecutive weekends.
The upcoming clash with France is anticipated to be a strong contest, with reports suggesting coach Fabien Galthie is planning to field a more formidable side compared to last summer's tour, which saw France criticised for resting key players. Bordeaux-Begles trio Matthieu Jalibert, Maxime Lucu, and Damien Penaud have already joined France's preparations, and regular skipper Antoine Dupont is expected to link up with the squad after Toulouse's Top 14 final against Montpellier this Saturday. This indicates a commitment from France to challenge the All Blacks with their strongest available talent.
The All Blacks squad for the Nations Championship includes a robust forward pack with players like Aumua, Taylor, Taukei'aho, and Savea himself, alongside a dynamic backline featuring Roigard, Barrett, McKenzie, and the newly called-up Fineanganofo, among others.