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Sport: RugbyCountry: ItalyCategory: Scores & Results

Ardie Savea named All Blacks captain, Fineanganofo earns first call-up

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 22, 2026, 11:51 AM

Last updated Jun 22, 2026

Ardie Savea named All Blacks captain, Fineanganofo earns first call-up
Summary

Ardie Savea has been appointed captain of the All Blacks in the first squad announcement by coach Dave Rennie. Savea, with 106 Test caps, takes over from Scott Barrett, who is out due to injury. Uncapped winger Fehi Fineanganofo has also been included in the 34-man squad after a strong Super Rugby season. He is under contract until November amid uncertainty regarding his upcoming move to Newcastle Red Bulls. The All Blacks begin their Nations Championship campaign against France in Christchurch on July 4.

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By the Numbers
  • •Ardie Savea replaces Scott Barrett as All Blacks captain.
  • •Fehi Fineanganofo receives his first call-up after a successful season.
  • •The All Blacks face France in their Nations Championship opener on July 4.
  • •Rieko Ioane is the notable omission from the squad.
  • •France is expected to bring a stronger lineup this year.
Latest Updates
  • 11:51 AMYahoo Sports — Savea new All Blacks captain as Fineanganofo in squad
  • 11:41 AMBBC Sport — Savea new All Blacks captain as Rennie calls up Fineanganofo
What they're saying
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Ardie Savea has been made the All Blacks captain in coach Dave Rennie's first squad announcement, while Newcastle-bound winger Fehi Fineanganofo gets a first call-up.

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Ardie Savea has been made the All Blacks captain in coach Dave Rennie's first squad announcement, while Newcastle-bound winger Fehi Fineanganofo gets a first call-up.

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