Savea Named Captain as Four Uncapped Bolters Make Rennie's First Squad

The All Blacks have their leader for 2026, and it is a name every fan knows. RNZ reported that Ardie Savea has been named captain, fronting a 34-strong squad. The NZ Herald confirmed the same 34-man group is new head coach Dave Rennie's first selection.

Savea summed up the mood of the year ahead. "A united All Blacks team has the power to unite a nation," he said, as reported by RNZ.

The most exciting part of the naming is the fresh talent. RNZ noted that four uncapped players earned call-ups: Hurricanes trio Fehi Fineanganofo, Josh Moorby and Xavier Numia, plus Blues loose forward Anton Segner.

Numia is a loosehead prop with the Hurricanes, the NZ Herald reported, joining the front-row conversation on the back of a strong Super Rugby Pacific campaign.

Wingers Fineanganofo and Moorby arrive off a season for the record books. RNZ reported that the pair scored 17 tries each, breaking the competition's single-season try record. RNZ also noted Fineanganofo has signed a two-year deal with Newcastle beginning in December, making his selection all the sweeter before he heads north.

Segner adds real depth to a loaded loose-forward mix. The German-born flanker has pushed his way into the reckoning at the Blues, RNZ noted, and now has a chance to earn a black jersey.

Rennie was clear about the type of player he wants. The NZ Herald reported that his squad reflects players with the ability to meet the demands of test footy while playing with optimism.

The season kicked off in style. RNZ reported that the All Blacks opened their campaign against France in Christchurch on 4 July, giving the new-look group its first run under Rennie in front of a home crowd.

With a trusted captain leading the way and four hungry newcomers pushing for debuts, there is plenty for New Zealand fans to look forward to in 2026.