Ardie Savea to lead Hurricanes in 2022 season of Super Rugby Pacific

Hurricanes have confirmed that All Blacks back-row Ardie Savea will captain the side for the 2022 season of Super Rugby Pacific.

Savea captained the club for the first time on his 100th game during the clash against the Auckland Blues in the 2021 season. He has been associated with Hurricanes since 2013 and was part of their Super Rugby title victory that came in the 2016 season.

"I am honoured to be able to lead and grow with the boys in 2022 and I’m excited to lead the team in the inaugural Super Rugby Pacific Season," he told the club's official website.

"Obviously, we are starting the new season in our team bubbles down here in Queenstown, but we're looking forward to the challenge.”

"We can't wait to get back to Our House and play in front of our fans at Sky Stadium."

The 28-year-old has been a key figure in the All Blacks since his international debut in 2016 and has featured in 57 Tests. He captained the All Blacks to victory in the Rugby Championship and was named All Blacks Player of the Year at the 2021 ASB New Zealand Rugby Awards.

“We’re delighted to have Ardie as our captain for the 2022 DHL Super Rugby Pacific Season," said Hurricanes head coach Jason Holland.

“Ardie is going into his tenth season with the club and has become an integral part of our leadership group and the history of the Hurricanes as a club.

“Ardie has led the team in his own way from his debut in 2013, to now and players follow his example.

“He has really grown as a leader in our environment, and it is a testament to the work he has put into himself, both on and off the field,” said Holland.