Sawt Falasteen - Savea 'embraces challenge' of leading All Blacks towards World Cup

New Zealand coach Rennie immediately installed dynamic back-row forward Savea as captain on Monday when he named his first squad since taking over from the sacked Scott Robertson.

Savea replaces the injured Scott Barrett as captain, beginning with next month's Nations Championship Tests against France, Italy and Ireland.

Savea has captained New Zealand before, but only when filling in because of injury or illness.

"I guess the biggest difference is the pressure and the responsibility," Savea said of getting the job permanently.

"We're representing a whole nation and every single Kiwi around the world," added the 2023 world player of the year.

"That can either burden you or you can walk towards it and embrace it.

"And I'm lucky I've got great people and great leaders within our team and coaches that we're able to walk towards and embrace the challenge."

- Fan favourite -

Savea is a huge fan favourite in New Zealand.

About 50 children from local schools were at the squad announcement at the Feilding Yellows Rugby Club in Manawatu, about two hours north of Wellington.

When Savea was announced as captain, some of the youngsters could be seen fist-pumping in celebration, and they gasped and leapt up when they realised their hero was present.

No other All Black gets the same reception, and Savea spent time talking to several young players about how stayed motivated and balanced rugby with his family.

"It's something that I'm still navigating at this moment around being a professional rugby player, but also being a father and a husband," said Savea.

"(You) kind of feel guilty, obviously, as a dad and as leader of the house travelling with work and then you're missing time with the kids," said Savea, who revealed he had messaged Barrett after being given his new role.

"You're always contemplating if this is the right thing or not," added Savea.

"I've got great people around me to really encourage me and tell you the decisions that you're making are good."

Rennie, who has a contract to coach the All Blacks through to the end of next year's Rugby World Cup in Australia, said Savea "tried to bat it off a bit" when he asked him to be captain.

"What we know with Ardie, he's not a massive talker, but he'll lead through his actions," he said.

"Having him as captain, he has massive respect. Very experienced. We think it's best for the team, and I think he'll only get better."

Savea and Rennie face a tough baptism. After facing France, Italy and Ireland at home in July, New Zealand depart for an eight-match tour of South Africa in August and September.

The trip will include four Tests against the world champion Springboks, a series being dubbed "Rugby's Greatest Rivalry".

The Rugby World Cup begins in October next year, with New Zealand drawn in a pool with hosts Australia, Chile and Hong Kong

E.Qaddoumi--SF-PST