Rugby Union News: Scrum-half Aaron Smith Weighs in on All Blacks Captaincy Debate
Scrum-half Aaron Smith has shared his thoughts on the ongoing debate surrounding the next All Blacks captain, with Ardie Savea and Scott Barrett emerging as the leading candidates to succeed Sam Cane.
Cane announced that he will be retiring from international rugby after the 2024 season, paving the way for a new skipper to be appointed by incoming head coach Scott Robertson. According to Robertson, the next All Blacks captain must be a “world-class” player, with both Savea and Barrett fitting that description.
Smith, who has captained the national team on one occasion, believes that while both players possess the necessary leadership qualities, Savea should be the preferred choice. The experienced scrum-half highlighted Savea’s emotional intelligence and his status as “the best player in the world” in recent years.
“Ardie’s emotional IQ is high. People probably don’t give him as much credit for that. He’s a strong voice. He will always challenge people, coaches, media on what he believes in. He’s got such a big heart,” Smith told Rugby Direct.
However, Smith acknowledged that Barrett’s existing relationship with Robertson, who coached him at the Crusaders, could give him an advantage. The scrum-half also suggested that other experienced players, such as Beauden Barrett and Codie Taylor, could be considered for the captaincy role.
Ultimately, Smith’s assessment suggests that Ardie Savea’s all-around abilities and leadership qualities make him the frontrunner to succeed Sam Cane as the next All Blacks captain, though the final decision will rest with Robertson and the New Zealand Rugby Union.
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