Ardie Savea To Lead The All Blacks In Huge Captaincy Shake-Up

Saturday, 23 May 2026 at 01:19

byRugby Rucker

Captains like Siya Kolisi, Antoine Dupont and Maro Itoje have come to define this era of international rugby, but every nation must eventually begin preparing for what comes next.

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From experienced vice-captains to emerging young stars, we have predicted the next skipper for every Tier 1 side.

Some choices feel obvious, while others could signal a major shift in style, leadership and identity ahead of the next Rugby World Cup cycle.

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New Zealand - Ardie Savea

Dave Rennie has yet to confirm who will captain New Zealand during the current Rugby World Cup cycle, though he has reportedly consulted former players and other high-profile sporting figures about leadership.

Given that he currently coaches one of the leading candidates, Ardie Savea, in Japan, the experienced back row could hold an advantage over his rivals.

Savea has consistently demonstrated his leadership qualities, particularly during his time with Moana Pasifika, where he inspired the side to several significant results.

England - Ollie Chessum

In Leicester Tigers' recent East Midlands derby win, Chessum produced a commanding display at lock that drew comparisons with former England captain Martin Johnson.

Still only 25, Chessum is already club captain at Leicester Tigers and is regarded as a strong presence in any dressing room he enters.

With Maro Itoje moving into the latter stages of his career, a transition from one second row leader to another could appeal to Steve Borthwick.

His state school background could also make him a relatable figure for England supporters.

Wales - Dewi Lake

This feels like the most straightforward selection, given that Lake captained Wales during Jac Morgan's absence at the most recent Six Nations.

Morgan is expected to resume the role once fully fit, but Lake has already shown he can handle the responsibility.

He also captained Wales during the 2025 autumn internationals after Morgan was sidelined again through injury, before being named captain for the 2026 Six Nations by Steve Tandy.

Italy - Tommaso Menoncello

Menoncello represents a different style of leadership from many of the forwards on this list. He is the type of player who leads primarily through his performances and composure rather than sheer physical presence, although he possesses plenty of that too.

Named Player of the Championship in the 2024 Six Nations, he played a leading role for Italy during the latest campaign, including their historic first win over England at the Stadio Olimpico.

It remains difficult to imagine Michele Lamaro stepping aside anytime soon, but Menoncello looks a natural successor.

France - Charles Ollivon

Antoine Dupont remains one of the finest players in world rugby and continues to captain France, leading them to this year's Six Nations title after returning from a long-term injury.

Although not a long-term option at 33, Ollivon already captains Toulon and brings a major presence both on and off the field. If Dupont were ever to step away from the role, Ollivon would appear a logical successor.

Argentina - Juan Martin Gonzalez

Veteran hooker Julian Montoya will not lead Argentina forever, meaning Felipe Contepomi is likely already considering the next long-term captain for a side that could challenge strongly at the 2027 Rugby World Cup.

A regular starter since 2022, González became the first player born in the 21st century to reach 50 Test caps for Argentina.

Considering his achievements, it is easy to forget he is still only 25, making him an appealing long-term leadership option.

Australia - Fraser McReight

Current captain Harry Wilson still has many years ahead of him, but McReight has already emerged as a serious leadership contender.

This year, he was appointed captain of the Queensland Reds, underlining his importance within the squad and his progression from promising talent to senior figure.

He also captained the Wallabies during a 2025 Test against South Africa.

South Africa - Malcolm Marx

It remains difficult to picture a Springboks side without the iconic Siya Kolisi as captain, but that transition is approaching.

Marx is widely regarded as one of the world's premier hookers and already serves as a leader within the South African setup. He was named World Rugby Men's 15s Player of the Year in 2025.

Now 31 and firmly in his prime, he combines elite-level experience with the authority needed to lead the Springboks into their next era.

Scotland - Rory Darge

With current captain Sione Tuipulotu still only 29, Scotland can afford to look toward a younger successor for the future.

Darge appears the obvious candidate and already has leadership experience. He was named Scotland co-captain ahead of the 2024 Six Nations before taking sole charge for the 2025 Pacific Tour.

At just 26, he still has plenty of time to develop further as a leader.

Ireland - Dan Sheehan

With Caelan Doris currently leading Ireland and several senior players approaching the later stages of their careers, the next captain is likely to come from a slightly younger generation.

Sheehan fits that profile and already appears to be on Andy Farrell's leadership radar. In February 2025, he captained Ireland against Wales in the absence of the injured Doris, marking the first time he had led the national side.

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