The All Blacks head coach gave context to the 89-Test lock's rehabilitation, and how important he will be going forward.
All Blacks head coach Dave Rennie discussed his discussions with former captain Scott Barrett before selecting Ardie Savea to lead the side. Barrett and Shannon Frizell have returned to the 34-man squad for the upcoming Bledisloe Cup clash against the Wallabies, marking their first national team selections in 2026.
Rennie noted that Barrett was previously a somewhat reluctant captain and will serve in a non-captain leadership capacity going forward. Barrett's return follows a sabbatical and injury rehabilitation, which resulted in lock Sam Darry missing selection, while Patrick Tuipulotu is sidelined by injury.
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