69 test cap Scott Barrett is poised to become the 81st captain of the All Blacks in a Test match.
He will be supported by Vice Captains Ardie Savea and brother Jordie Barrett.
Reflecting on his new role, Barrett shared via the AllBlacks.com website, “It’s incredibly humbling to be asked to captain the All Blacks, considering the leaders who have come before me. It’s a significant responsibility, but I’m confident with Ardie and Jordie by my side, and we have the full support of our coaches.”
Coach Robertson described his long-standing relationship with Scott Barrett as a key factor in his selection. “Scott’s tactical acumen, leadership by example, and the respect he commands from both players and coaches were crucial in our decision. Leadership is shared among our group, and Ardie, Jordie, and the rest of our leaders will be essential as we prepare for the first Test against England.”
Robertson also congratulated the five new additions to the squad: hooker George Bell, prop Pasilio Tosi, halfback Cortez Ratima, centre Billy Proctor, and loose forward Wallace Sititi, the youngest at 21. “This is a proud moment for these players and their families. They’ve earned their spots through consistent performance, and we’re excited to help them seize their opportunities.”
The All Blacks squad for the Steinlager Low Carb Series will gather in Wellington on June 26, where they will launch the 2024 Test season with junior rugby players and guests. Blues lock Sam Darry, Hurricanes outside back Ruben Love, and Crusaders prop George Bower and midfielder David Havili will join the squad as cover.
New caps:
- George Bell (22 / Crusaders / Canterbury): The dynamic young hooker is known for his impressive skills on the field. Raised on a sheep and beef station in Otago, Bell began his rugby journey with the Eastern Rugby Football Club. A standout player from John McGlashan College, he made his Super Rugby debut for the Crusaders in 2022 and has been recognized as New Zealand Rugby Almanack’s Most Promising Player of the Year.
- Billy Proctor (25 / Hurricanes / Wellington): Billy Proctor has been a key player for the Hurricanes since 2019. A product of St Patrick’s College, Proctor’s rugby talent runs in the family, with his brother Matt being an All Black. He debuted for the Māori All Blacks in 2020 and has since solidified his position in the Hurricanes backline.
- Cortez Ratima (23 / Chiefs / Waikato): Cortez Ratima has shown exceptional form for the Chiefs in 2024. Originating from Piopio and having attended New Plymouth Boys’ High School and Hamilton Boys High School, Ratima quickly advanced to play in the Bunnings Warehouse NPC for Waikato. He made his Chiefs debut in 2022 and was selected for the All Blacks XV Northern Tour.
- Wallace Sititi (21 / Chiefs / North Harbour): Wallace Sititi, the youngest in the 2024 squad, plays as a loose forward, following in his father Semo’s footsteps. Sititi’s leadership was evident as he captained the Blues U20 and represented New Zealand U20 after finishing at De La Salle College in Auckland. His robust play for the Chiefs in Super Rugby has earned him a spot in the All Blacks.
- Pasilio Tosi (25 / Hurricanes / Bay of Plenty): Pasilio Tosi’s transition from a loose forward to a prop has been remarkable. Starting his career with the Southland Stags, Tosi moved to Bay of Plenty and caught the attention of the Hurricanes. Born in Levin, Tosi’s journey from Horowhenua College to Rotorua Boys’ High School first XV showcases his development and versatility as a player.
Eden Park is sold out! Thank you to everyone who has purchased tickets, we can’t wait to play in front of you 🖤
Tickets are still available for the LipovitanD Rugby Championship ➡️ https://t.co/E7gZ5sS6mq#AllBlacks pic.twitter.com/9Z9bBzndZ1
— All Blacks (@AllBlacks) June 24, 2024
