Codie Taylor to lead New Zealand All Blacks in rugby’s Bledisloe Cup despite Scott Barrett’s return

New Zealand's rugby team, the All Blacks, have named hooker Codie Taylor as their captain for the upcoming Bledisloe Cup series against Australia. This comes despite the return of former captain Scott Barrett, who has been recalled after playing only a limited amount of rugby this year. Barrett will rejoin his brothers Beauden and Jordie in the squad for the first time this season, following his recovery from back surgery.

Taylor was selected to lead the team in place of Ardie Savea, who is currently out of action due to shoulder surgery. He served as captain during the All Blacks' final test against South Africa during the Rugby's Greatest Rivalry tour, which the Springboks won 3-1. New Zealand's head coach, Dave Rennie, praised Taylor for his leadership during the tour and praised him as a "top man with huge mana (status)".

Scott Barrett's return adds valuable leadership and experience to the All Blacks' squad. He made his first appearance for New Zealand last weekend in a National Provincial Championship match, playing for just over 50 minutes. Shannon Frizell has also been recalled for the first time since 2023 to bolster a depleted back row. Additionally, flyhalf Ruben Love, lock Patrick Tuipulotu, centers Anton Lienert-Brown and Billy Proctor, and prop Ollie Norris are all unavailable for the Bledisloe Cup due to injuries.

The All Blacks will face Australia in two Tests, with the first set to take place in Auckland on October 10 and the second in Sydney on October 17. After their recent 3-1 win over South Africa in the Greatest Rivalry series, the Wallabies will be returning from a dramatic upset win against South Africa. With a 53-test winning streak at Eden Park, New Zealand's home ground, they will be looking to defend their title and face a challenge from a highly experienced Australian team.