Scott Barrett is the new captain of the All Blacks rugby team, taking over from Sam Cane. His main rival for the role, Ardie Savea, and Scott’s brother, Jordie Barrett, have been picked as vice-captains by the new head coach, Scott Robertson.
Barrett’s appointment ends months of guessing. While it’s no surprise that Savea is a vice-captain, Jordie’s selection shows how important he has become to the team.
The 32-man squad for next month’s three Test matches includes five new players: Hurricanes prop Pasilio Tosi, Hurricanes midfielder Billy Proctor, Crusaders hooker George Bell, Chiefs No.8 Wallace Sititi, and Chiefs halfback Cortez Ratima. Tosi’s selection was unexpected since he switched from being a No.8 to a prop a few years ago.
Some well-known players, like Blues loose forward Hoskins Sotutu and Chiefs outside backs Shaun Stevenson and Etene Nanai-Seturo, were not chosen. However, Blues lock Sam Darry, Hurricanes outside back Ruben Love, and Crusaders prop George Bower and midfielder David Havili will join the squad as backup players.
The All Blacks will play two Test matches against England in Dunedin and Auckland, and one against Fiji in San Diego.
