On June 22, New Zealand rugby coach Dave Rennie appointed Ardie Savea as captain for the Nations Championship tests. The squad includes four uncapped players: Xavier Numia, Anton Segner, Fehi Fineanganofo, and Josh Moorby.
Savea takes over from Scott Barrett, who is sidelined due to injury ahead of the July 4 opener against France. Injuries also ruled out Tamaiti Williams, Fabian Holland, and Leicester Fainga’anuku.
Rennie expressed confidence in Savea's leadership skills, emphasizing his respect among teammates and commitment to the team. Ruben Love joins the flyhalf roster alongside Damian McKenzie and Beauden Barrett.