New Zealand Captains: A Complete List
- The All Blacks, New zealand's national rugby team, boast a storied history dating back to 1870.
- Scott Barrett was appointed captain by coach Scott Robertson for the 2024 series against England.Barrett acknowledged the honor, saying, "When you think of the leaders who have gone...
- Sam Cane captained the All Blacks from 2020 to 2023, leading them in 27 matches.
Uncover the stories of the All Blacks captains,the leaders who have steered new Zealand Rugby to global dominance! From Scott Barrett’s recent appointment to the iconic Richie McCaw,explore the legacies of these influential figures. Learn how each captain shaped the team’s successes, including World Cup victories, Rugby Championship titles, and memorable moments. Discover the impact of captains like Sam Cane, Tana Umaga, and Kieren Read and Reuben Thorne, who led the All Blacks through various eras. News Directory 3 presents a comprehensive look at the leadership that defines this legendary rugby nation. Discover what’s next for the All Blacks.
All Blacks Captains: A Legacy of Leadership in New Zealand Rugby
Updated June 05, 2025
The All Blacks, New zealand’s national rugby team, boast a storied history dating back to 1870. Over the decades, numerous captains have led the team, each leaving their mark on the sport. From the early days of David Gallaher to the modern era, the All Blacks captains represent the pinnacle of rugby leadership.
Scott Barrett was appointed captain by coach Scott Robertson for the 2024 series against England.Barrett acknowledged the honor, saying, “When you think of the leaders who have gone before you, it’s quite humbling to be asked to captain the All Blacks.” He also noted the support of vice captains Ardie Savea and Jordie Barrett.
Sam Cane captained the All Blacks from 2020 to 2023, leading them in 27 matches. Cane, who debuted in 2012 and won the 2015 Rugby World Cup, also captained the team during the 2023 Rugby World Cup, were they reached the final. He received a red card in the final,which they lost by one point. Cane retired from international rugby after the 2024 season.
Kieren “Cracks” Read took over the captaincy from Richie McCaw in 2016 and served until 2019. During his tenure, New Zealand secured Rugby Championship titles in 2016, 2017 and 2018. Read also captained the team during the 2017 British and Irish Lions tour, which ended in a draw. The 2019 Rugby World Cup saw the All Blacks finish third under his leadership.
Richie McCaw, considered one of the greatest All Blacks of all time, captained the team from 2006 to 2015. He led New Zealand to back-to-back Rugby World Cup victories in 2011 and 2015. Under McCaw’s leadership, the all blacks also won eight Rugby Championships and Tri Nations titles. McCaw holds the record for most Tests as captain, with 97 wins out of 110.
Tana Umaga became captain in 2004, making history as the first All Blacks captain with pacific Island heritage. His first six games as captain were all victories, including two against England. Umaga led New Zealand to win the Bledisloe Cup in 2004 and an undefeated series against the British and Irish Lions in 2005.He retired from international rugby in january 2006.
Reuben Thorne served as the All Blacks captain for 22 games, along with one match during McCaw’s tenure. He was selected as captain when Anton Oliver was injured. Under Thorne’s leadership, New zealand lost only three games and won two Tri Nations trophies. His final game as captain was the 2003 Rugby World Cup semi-final loss to Australia.
What’s next
As the All Blacks continue their legacy in international rugby, the focus shifts to future leadership and the ongoing quest for dominance in the sport. the selection of future All Blacks captains will undoubtedly be a crucial factor in the team’s success.