Ardie Savea hoping to lead by example

Ardie Savea is hoping to lead by example when he captains the All Blacks in their Rugby Championship Test against the Wallabies in Perth next weekend.

With Sam Whitelock, who has been filling in for injured first-choice skipper Sam Cane, staying behind in New Zealand for the birth of his child, Hurricanes captain Savea has been handed the leadership role.

The 27-year-old said he would not deviate from his usual style during the Bledisloe Cup encounter.

“A big thing is just being myself and leading the way I usually lead, which is just trying to do it through actions,” Savea told AAP.

“I’m not a quiet dude but I usually go about things in a quiet way, so I won’t change much.”

Huge achievement

Savea admitted that he is excited about the prospect of leading the three-time world champions and said being chosen for the leadership role was a huge achievement for his family.

“To be able to lead such a team, it’s out of this world when I think about it,” he added.

“And to be able to tell Mum and Dad was huge. Two people that migrated from Samoa to create a better life for their kids – sorry, I’m getting a bit emotional – to be here for them is pretty special.

“I’m still in awe. It’s a team that you dream of as a kid, and being able to lead is amazing. I’m lost for words and really grateful.”

The All Blacks are aiming for a clean sweep against the Wallabies in Perth. Ian Foster’s charges have already secured the Bledisloe Cup for the 19th successive year after winning the previous two Tests at Eden Park earlier this month.

Ardie Savea to captain New Zealand

Back-row Ardie Savea will take over New Zealand’s captaincy role in the absence of Sam Whitelock for the rest of the Rugby Championship.