Hooker keeps Cup role despite returning All Black

Codie Taylor has been named captain of New Zealand's 34-man squad for the upcoming two-Test Bledisloe Cup series against Australia. Taylor retains the captaincy in place of Ardie Savea, who is sidelined following shoulder surgery. The Tests are scheduled for October 10 in Auckland and October 17 in Sydney, with former captain Scott Barrett also recalled following his recovery from back surgery.

Head coach Dave Rennie welcomed the returns of Barrett and loose forward Shannon Frizell, who earned his first call-up since 2023. The All Blacks face significant injury absences, including Luke Jacobson, Caleb Clarke, and Ruben Love, as they aim to defend their 53-Test winning streak at Eden Park.