Current Crusaders captain Scott Barrett has been named as the next captain of the All Blacks.
The Crusaders centurion was called up to higher honours as the first All Blacks squad of 2024 was announced in Christchurch on Monday 24 June. He'll be joined by Vice Captains Ardie Savea and Jordie Barrett.
“When you think of the leaders who have gone before you, it’s quite humbling to be asked to captain the All Blacks, so it’s not something I took lightly," new All Blacks captain Scott Barrett said in Christchurch on Monday.
"It’s a big responsibility, but I have two great leaders beside me in Ardie and Jordie, and I know we’ll have the full backing of the coaches."
Barrett debuted for the Crusaders in 2014 and has been part of seven championship-winning seasons. He recently extended his contract with New Zealand Rugby and the Crusaders through to 2027.
The extension makes him available for selection to represent the All Blacks at the 2027 Australia Rugby World Cup.
Barrett was named Crusaders captain in 2020 and has held the position since. His on-field leadership has guided the team through both tough results and championship wins and he cracked his 100th game in Fiji during the team’s victorious 2023 season.
“There are some great leaders in our group, but having that existing connection to Scott was important," said All Blacks Head Coach Scott Robertson.
"He’s tactically astute, he leads from the front, and he’s got the respect of the players and coaches. Leadership is a shared responsibility and Ardie, Jordie and our wider leadership group will be crucial to how we come together and connect ahead of the first Test against England.
