Sam Whitelock takes over New Zealand captaincy for November Tests

New Zealand head coach Ian Foster has confirmed that Sam Whitelock will take over the captaincy for the upcoming November Tests.

The decision follows after Sam Cane suffered a cheekbone injury during the All Blacks' 38-31 win over Japan in the recently concluded game in Tokyo.

The news was confirmed by New Zealand forwards coach Jason Ryan.

“Sam Whitelock will captain the All Blacks for this northern tour and Ardie Savea and Beauden Barrett will be vice captains,” he said.

“Sam is really experienced and respected in the group. He’s played 100 plus test matches and experienced a lot so he’s the right man for the job. It was pretty straightforward and really well supported by the vice captains.”

Meanwhile, Beauden Barrett expressed disappointment over Cane's injury but is confident that Whitelock's experience will greatly aid the side as they face Wales, Scotland and England this month in the preparation for next year's World Cup in France.

“Sam Whitelock is a big leader of action. He’s been around a long time and has plenty of experience and stories. He leads through his preparation and how he performs on the field.

“We’re gutted to lose Sam Cane for the tour. There’s a chance a couple of guys will get promoted into our team. We’re fully supporting Sam Whitelock and it’s great Ardie and I can be vice captains alongside him.”