Aaron Smith Favors Ardie Savea Over Scott Barrett for All Blacks Captaincy…
Scrum-half Aaron Smith has expressed his preference for Ardie Savea over Scott Barrett in the ongoing debate about the next All Blacks captain. With Sam Cane announcing his retirement from international rugby after the 2024 season, new head coach Scott Robertson is expected to appoint a new captain this year.
Robertson has emphasized that the captain must be ‘world-class,’ with Savea and Barrett being the primary candidates. Smith, who has captained the All Blacks once, supports Savea for the role, citing both players as fitting the bill but highlighting Savea’s superior performance.
“Scott and Ardie are both action-oriented and powerful speakers with high leadership qualities,” Smith told Rugby Direct. “However, I believe you should choose your best player, and Ardie Savea was the best player in the world last year.”
Smith mentioned that Savea was in close competition with Antoine Dupont for the top spot for a few years and felt Savea was unjustly overlooked previously. He believes Savea’s leadership credentials and past performances give him an advantage.
Smith acknowledged Barrett’s leadership experience with the Crusaders under Robertson, suggesting it could benefit their cohesion. “Giving the captaincy to Barrett would strengthen the connection with Razor, as they have a successful history as coach and captain,” he said.
However, Smith highlighted Savea’s high emotional intelligence and his ability to inspire the team’s emotional core. “Ardie’s emotional IQ is underrated. He challenges others and has a big heart,” Smith added. He praised Savea’s versatility and impact since the 2019 World Cup.
Smith also mentioned other potential candidates like Beauden Barrett and Codie Taylor. He noted Beauden Barrett’s leadership, calmness, and experience, and praised Taylor’s preparation, performance, and respect within the team.
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