Inhis absence, Savea becomes skipper and Jordie Barrett and Codie Taylor will share vice-captaincy duties.
Blues playmaker Harry Plummer, who enjoyed a fantastic Super Rugby Pacific season, has been brought into the squad as cover for Stephen Perofeta, who is managing “a bit of a niggle”, according to assistant coach Jason Ryan.
Meanwhile, loose forward Dalton Papali’i has signed a new contract with New Zealand Rugby (NZR) that will keep him in the country until the end of 2027. The 26-year-old has also extended his time with the Blues in Super Rugby Pacific and with Counties-Manukau in the NPC.
Papali’i, who made his All Blacks debut in 2018, has played 34 tests for the national team. His new deal means he will be available for the 2027 Rugby World Cup in Australia.
“I’m loving my footy right now at every level and home is where the heart is, so it was an easy decision to remain in New Zealand and run it back with the Blues next year,” Papali’i said in a statement. “It’s great to have certainty about the next few years but right now my full focus is on the Rugby Championship and contributing to the All Blacks in 2024.”
All Blacks head coach Scott Robertson said his recommitment is a great result for New Zealand.
“Dalton is a world-class loose forward who brings physicality and work rate on both sides of the ball and can play multiple positions. He works hard every day in our environment and continues to grow as a leader and player.”
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