Barrett Out, Savea Steps Up

All Blacks captain Scott Barrett is set for a five-month layoff after surgery on his back, ruling him out of the new Nations Championship and the South Africa tour. Already battling ankle and Achilles issues, Barrett’s frustration is palpable, but the focus remains on his recovery. With him sidelined, Ardie Savea is poised to take over as captain under Dave Rennie, while Will Jordan could miss the start of the test season due to a calf injury. Meanwhile, the Crusaders, still playoff contenders, host the Hurricanes this Friday — a win could secure a home playoff spot. Support the show:Get a discount at https://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/a67041552692e0dc